By Anthony A. Araos
Often, a cooperative can get ample attention only during October because of the so-called “Cooperative Month celebration.” Not really so for Tam-an Banaue Multipurpose Cooperative (Tam-an BMPC). The cooperative opened recently its 63rd branch in Urdaneta City, Pangasinan. It was obviously a “rousing success.”
I cannot emphasize enough the strength and the value that Tam-an BMPC brings to economic recovery and national development.
Barangay council and city government officials attended the branch opening program. It exemplified the “strong partnership” of key figures in the private and public sector. Partnership, of course, between these sectors is the “centerpiece” of the country’s transformative effort. I believe what took place in Urdaneta City should be replicated elsewhere. Also, I believe that the Tam-an BMPC should take the lead in doing so in Northern Philippines.
Without a doubt, the private sector plays a very strong role in economic development. Thus, the cooperative is an engine of growth across the Philippines. Without it, one can’t expect to go far. Fact: Tam-an BMPC is one of the few multi-billionaire cooperatives in Northern Luzon. In short, it is a stalwart leader in the cooperative front. It will spread spheres of finance and development, thereby, in a position to redistribute wealth and opportunities in places where it operates.
Looking at the bigger picture, Tam-an BMPC has been recognized for its remarkable accomplishments and success in propelling growth and development in many localities. Several prestigious organizations have acknowledged it as a pillar of nation-building and not a few NGOs and people’s organizations have relied on it for much-needed support and assistance.
Which is why, the Tam-an BMPC is said to be not only one of the largest cooperatives in Northern Luzon (the Ilocos Region, CAR and Cagayan Valley comprise this section of the country), but also one of the most highly respected coops in the Philippines.
Today, it continues to provide affordable, accessible and quality services to members and the public as part of its commitment to assist key economic sectors toward building stronger and more inclusive local communities.
That is where five prominent individuals came into the picture. For one, there is Jose Tomas Jr. Surely, the son of the coop’s founding chief is known for his dedication to uplift the lives of the poor, sick and the needy. “It is truly a privilege to help the people,” he said at the program. “The officers and personnel of Tam-an BMPC are ‘heroes’ in our concerted drive to curb poverty,” he added. The cooperative is extraordinarily blessed with highly-dedicated officers Melchor Carnate Jr., the BOD’s chairperson, and vice chairman Wilson Daulayan. Likewise, largely credited for program’s success was newly-promoted Tam-an BMPC Urdaneta manager Geraldine Dulnuan.
Above all, and more importantly, there is Jose “Tam-an” Tomas Sr., who also served as Nueva Vizcaya vice governor. Presently, a board member Tomas Sr. is well-known for his selfless service as well as dedication in upholding the principles of service, integrity and professionalism in a high standard for all public servants. Make no mistake about it- Jose “Tam-an” Tomas Sr. is a staunch cooperative advocate, Cordilleran (born in Hingyon, Ifugao) and distinguished long-time, tried and tested Filipino leader.
To this day, most Filipinos are exposed to financial burden due to the high cost of living. Fortunately, Tam-an BMPC supports the national government’s economic development blueprint of undercutting poverty incidence.
Tam-an BMPC opened another golden door for endless opportunities and possibilities for the Cordilleras and adjacent region-after doing so in Baguio City with a branch, five in Benguet, four in Ifugao (Alfonso Lista, Banaue, Lagawe and Lamut)and four in Mt. Province. Lessons are now very clear. I never imagined, the best just got better!**
