PROSPERIDAD, Agusan del Sur - Selected officers and members of the Gamao Multi-Purpose Cooperative (GMC) participated in a five-day training on Organizational Strengthening and Development from August 11 to 15, 2025. Held at FDAI in Patin-ay, Prosperidad, the training aimed to equip participants with the knowledge and skills to enhance their organization's effectiveness and sustainability.

The training focused on topics such as organizational development goals, group strengthening, and the roles of leaders and members. Participants learned about the importance of aligning organizational objectives with member needs and developing attainable plans. The sessions also emphasized the values of effective communication, transparency, and maintaining good relationships with members and stakeholders to drive success. Other topics included leadership and good governance.

The resource persons included Mr. Ken Fabian, Development Management Officer of the Department of Trade and Industry – Agusan del Norte, and Pastor Oronito G. Abendanio, Moral Recovery Officer of the Police Regional Office XIII, with Neptali V. Madarimot as Project Officer.

Part of the training was a benchmarking tour of successful agricultural cooperatives in Butuan City and Surigao City. This practical application allowed participants to observe and learn from the best practices, innovations, and strategies that have contributed to the success of these cooperatives.

As a re-entry plan, participants agreed to disseminate their learnings to other cooperative members, ensuring the knowledge gained will benefit the entire organization in becoming viable and resilient.