Quezon City has become the first local government unit (LGU) in Metro Manila to establish a comprehensive cooperative code, creating a long-term policy framework to support cooperatives as drivers of inclusive economic growth and community empowerment.
Through Ordinance No. SP-3526, S-2026, also known as the Quezon City Cooperative Code, the city government institutionalized programs and regulations aligned with Republic Act No. 9520 or the Philippine Cooperative Code of 2008.
Introduced by Councilor Charm Ferrer and co-introduced by members of the Quezon City Council, the ordinance provides support for cooperatives from organization and registration to capacity building, financing, market expansion, and sustainability initiatives.
Mayor Joy Belmonte highlighted the importance of cooperatives in strengthening communities through collective action.
“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.”
The new code expands assistance available to cooperatives, including technical support for emerging organizations, standardized training programs, access to grants and credit facilities, and market development partnerships with government agencies and private institutions.
It also provides incentives, local tax exemptions, compliance assistance, and programs promoting environmental sustainability and disaster resilience among cooperatives.
The Quezon City Small Business and Cooperative Development and Promotions Office (QC-SBCDPO) will lead the implementation of the ordinance, in coordination with the Cooperative Development Authority (CDA), Quezon City Cooperative Development Council (QCCoopDC), and other relevant offices.
The city government said the Cooperative Code aims to strengthen cooperatives as key partners in creating economic opportunities, reducing poverty, and building more resilient communities in Quezon City.
