04/08/2026
Usec. Raquepo Urges Cooperatives to Champion Gender Equality for Inclusive Development
BAGUIO CITY, PHILIPPINES: 4 August 2026 — Cooperative Development Authority (CDA) Chairperson Undersecretary Alexander B. Raquepo called on cooperatives across the country to become stronger advocates of Gender Equality (GE) and Gender and Development (GAD), emphasizing that inclusive participation is essential to building resilient and people-centered cooperatives.
Delivering his solidarity message and presentation during the 6th National Summit on Gender and Development (GAD) in Cooperatives, themed “Empowering Generations of Cooperators through GAD,” Usec. Raquepo underscored that gender equality is not an end in itself but a vital means toward improving the quality of life for individuals, families, and communities.
“GE is a means to an end and not an end in itself. It is an important facet or ingredient for a better quality of life,” Usec. Raquepo stressed, encouraging cooperative leaders and members to view gender equality as an integral part of sustainable cooperative development.
The CDA Chairperson reminded participants that embracing gender equality is a continuous journey that requires conviction, commitment, and perseverance. He noted that meaningful change cannot happen overnight but is achieved through consistent advocacy and by influencing others through example.
“Be convinced and committed before you can influence others,” he said, describing the gender equality journey as both meaningful and rewarding.
Addressing common misconceptions surrounding gender equality, Usec. Raquepo shared a personal reflection, affirming that advocating for equal opportunities and respect for all genders does not diminish one's identity.
“GE did not make me less a man,” he remarked, emphasizing that gender equality strengthens rather than weakens individuals and organizations.
He also challenged cooperatives to institutionalize gender-responsive governance by strengthening the role of their GAD Committees. According to Usec. Raquepo, these committees should actively lead gender mainstreaming initiatives through affirmative actions that promote equal participation and opportunities within their organizations.
Highlighting the true objective of GAD, Usec. Raquepo said that it seeks to ensure appropriate responses, respect, fair processes, and equitable participation of all genders.
“Ang hangad ng GAD ay tamang pagtugon, pagrespeto, pamamaraan at patas na pagsali ng lahat ng kasarian,” he emphasized.
The CDA Chair likewise acknowledged that advocates of gender equality may encounter resistance from various sectors. Nevertheless, he encouraged participants to remain steadfast in their principles and continue promoting inclusivity despite differing views.
“There will be many challenges... be firm, hold on to your belief and go on. We cannot convince everyone to be on our side,” he said.
Reaffirming the cooperative movement's democratic values, Usec. Raquepo stressed that genuine democracy can only flourish when men and women work together as equal partners in shaping policies and advancing cooperative enterprises.
“There can never be real democracy without genuine partnership between men and women in the conduct of public policies and all other cooperative undertakings,” he said.
Concluding his presentation, Usec. Raquepo welcomed participants to what he described as a growing community of gender equality advocates and encouraged them to continue advancing the principles of respect, inclusion, and shared responsibility within the cooperative sector.
He left participants with a message that reflects the cooperative movement's aspiration for a more inclusive society: “Some keep winning games, let's keep winning respect. Let's Work Together!”
