SENATOR Manuel ‘Lito’ Lapid has filed a measure seeking to establish a National Center for Cooperative Development at the Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP).

Under Senate Bill No. 1647, or the proposed PUP National Center for Cooperative Development Act, Lapid underscored the crucial role of cooperatives in promoting inclusive economic growth, social equity, and democratic participation.

He noted that PUP, as one of the country’s leading state universities with a mandate to serve the working class and disadvantaged sectors, is well-positioned to spearhead a national initiative focused on cooperative education, research, and capacity-building.

According to Lapid, establishing a dedicated institution within PUP would create a comprehensive, values-driven, and academically grounded approach to strengthening the cooperative sector, while developing competent leaders and practitioners.

The proposed measure aims to set up the National Center for Cooperative Development within the PUP system as a hub for cooperative studies, training, applied research, and extension services.

The center would offer degree and certificate programs, conduct field-based and community-oriented training, produce policy-relevant research, and provide technical and consultancy support to cooperatives nationwide.