Sustainability Practices of Cooperatives in Pangasinan: Basis for Informational Guide
John B. Agbuya¹, Deborah B. Castillo¹, Mary Katherine A. Apolonio²
https://orcid.org/0009-0009-8910-9689¹, https://orcid.org/0009-0004-2236-833X¹, https://orcid.org/00009-0006-2080-2977²
jbagbuya@yahoo.com.ph¹, dbcastillo.8@gmail.com¹, mkaapolonio@tsu.edu.ph²
Virgen Milagrosa University Foundation Inc.
Martin P. Posadas Avenue, San Carlos City 2420 Pangasinan, Philippines
² Food Technology Department, College of Science, Tarlac State University
Lucinda Campus, Brgy. Binauganan, Tarlac City, Tarlac, 2300, Philippines
DOI: https://doi.org/10.54476/ioer-imrj/
ABSTRACT
This descriptive correlational study examined sustainability practices of cooperatives in Pangasinan, Philippines, focusing on internal control systems, intervention programs, and mitigation strategies. Using purposive sampling, data were collected from 190 cooperatives meeting the inclusion criteria: valid Cooperative Development Authority compliance, a minimum of ten years of operation, and three million pesos in assets. Findings revealed multi-purpose cooperatives as predominant, with most classified as micro-level enterprises. Internal control systems demonstrated robust implementation with comprehensive strategic vision, market awareness, and organizational communication. Intervention programs showed substantial impacts on member empowerment through financial literacy, skills development, and community engagement. Mitigation strategies addressing economic, environmental, and social challenges were implemented at moderate to high levels. Pearson correlation analysis established significant positive relationships between cooperative demographics and sustainability practices. The study developed a comprehensive informational guide to assist cooperatives in sustaining operations and advancing community development objectives.
Keywords: cooperative management, sustainability practices, internal control systems, intervention programs, risk mitigation, financial governance, organizational development, Philippines
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