The Quezon City Government has become the first local government unit in Metro Manila to enact a comprehensive Cooperative Code, institutionalizing long-term support for cooperatives and recognizing them as key drivers of inclusive economic growth, community empowerment, and poverty reduction.
Introduced by Councilor Charm Ferrer and co-introduced by the members of the Quezon City Council, Ordinance No. SP-3526, S-2026, otherwise known as the Quezon City Cooperative Code, establishes a unified policy framework for cooperative development in the city, strengthening local programs and regulations in line with Republic Act No. 9520, or the Philippine Cooperative Code of 2008.
Mayor Joy Belmonte underscored the vital role cooperatives play in building stronger and more resilient communities.
“The heart of every cooperative is the spirit of bayanihan, highlighting the values that unite different sectors and communities. This reflects Quezon City’s commitment to Kasama Ka sa Pag-unlad—ensuring that every sector shares in the city’s growth and development.”
Building on the Quezon City Cooperative Development Plan 2025–2028 and supporting the Cooperative Development Authority’s call for stronger local government participation, the ordinance transforms existing initiatives into permanent city policy while expanding assistance available to cooperatives.
The Code provides a comprehensive package of support covering every stage of a cooperative’s development—from organization and registration to capacity building, financing, market expansion, environmental sustainability, and institutional strengthening.
Among its key provisions are applicable local tax exemptions, commensurate fees, incentives, and other forms of support; technical assistance for newly forming cooperatives; standardized education and training programs; improved access to grants, credit facilities, and the Quezon City Credit Surety Fund; and expanded market development through partnerships with agencies such as the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), Department of Science and Technology (DOST), Food and Drug Administration (FDA), and other public and private institutions.
To strengthen governance and long-term viability, the ordinance also institutionalizes regular compliance support and capacity-building interventions, enabling cooperatives to address operational challenges, improve organizational performance, and meet regulatory requirements.
Recognizing the growing role of cooperatives in sustainable development, the Code likewise integrates environmental protection and disaster resilience into cooperative programs, while institutionalizing the annual observance of Cooperative Month to recognize the sector’s contributions and promote greater public awareness.
The ordinance designates the Quezon City Small Business and Cooperative Development and Promotions Office (QC-SBCDPO) as the lead implementing office. In consultation with the Cooperative Development Authority (CDA), the Quezon City Cooperative Development Council (QCCoopDC), and other relevant offices, QC-SBCDPO will formulate the Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR) and oversee the implementation of cooperative education, capacity-building, financing, and development programs.
Meanwhile, the QCCoopDC will continue to serve as the city’s policy advisory and coordinating body, providing strategic guidance and recommendations on cooperative development.
Through the enactment of the Quezon City Cooperative Code, the city further strengthens its commitment to empowering cooperatives as partners in expanding economic opportunities, fostering inclusive growth, and building stronger, more resilient communities.
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