ICOPED Partners with CDA to Enhance Writing Skills of Cooperative Stakeholders

The Cooperative Development Authority (CDA) Region IV-A Extension Office, in partnership with the Institute of Cooperatives and Bio-Enterprise Development (ICOPED), successfully conducted a two-day training titled “Technical and Popular Writing for Cooperative Stakeholders” on November 4-5, 2025 at Sol Y Viento Hotels and Resorts, Calamba, Laguna. 

The activity gathered 29 participants, composed of CDA personnel and officers from six coconut farmers’ cooperatives across CALABARZON, for an intensive capacity-building session aimed at improving their written communication skills.

The training, organized through the support of the Coconut Farmers and Industry Development Plan (CFIDP) of the Philippine Coconut Authority, aimed to strengthen the ability of cooperative stakeholders to prepare clear, concise, and purpose-driven materials, and to transform technical content into engaging and accessible messages for members, partners, and the general public.

The training program officially opened with a welcome message from Attorney August Owen Magdato, Legal Officer of CDA Region IV-A Extension Office and was immediately followed by the technical writing session facilitated by ICOPED Director, Dr. Karen Q. Custodio. The first session covered topics on the concepts of technical writing, the structure and styles in technical writing, and ethical practices in writing. 

On the second day, Ms. Yrelle Mae L. Dizon served as resource speaker for the popular writing session, which focused on the differences of technical and popular writing, elements of good storytelling and reader engagement, writing for the web, and introduction to digital publishing tools. 

During the training, participants engaged in writing exercises that allowed them to apply lessons learned and reflect on their communication practices. Many expressed that the session would help them prepare more effective reports and communication materials when they return to their respective cooperatives and offices.

The activity reaffirmed CDA and ICOPED’s shared commitment to improving the documentation and communication capacities of cooperative stakeholders, ensuring that cooperative stories and achievements are conveyed with both accuracy and impact.

KQCustodio