SATOCA Cooperative wins top SSF Project Award

The SATOCA Agrarian Reform Cooperative from Negros Occidental has been recognized as the Best Shared Service Facilities (SSF) Project in Western Visayas for 2024.

The announcement was made during the SSF Mid-year Assessment and Planning event held on July 31, 2024, at the Goldberry Hotel in Iloilo City.

Founded through the Department of Trade and Industry’s (DTI) Bottom-Up Budgeting Program in 2015-2016, SATOCA has evolved from a collection of small agricultural groups in Sagay City to a thriving cooperative.

Initially composed of 22 members from Sagay, Toboso, and Calatrava municipalities, it now includes 34 members, including associates.

The SSF program, a flagship initiative of the DTI, has played a crucial role in SATOCA’s success. This program enhances micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) by providing access to advanced technology and equipment through a public-private partnership model.

DTI VI Regional Director Rachel Nufable emphasized the program’s impact, stating, “This approach enables small businesses to access machinery, tools, and systems that enhance the productivity and competitiveness of MSMEs.”

SATOCA’s journey saw a significant milestone in late 2018 when it acquired its FDA License to Operate for its processing facility in Old Sagay.

With new tools and machinery from the SSF, SATOCA improved its production capabilities and product quality, expanding its market reach.

Their “Deliciously Healthy” products are now distributed to Pasalubong Centers, One Town, One Product (OTOP) Hubs, and supermarkets across the province.

The cooperative’s achievements also include a partnership with the Department of Education – Division of Escalante and Esheen Consumers Cooperative, leading to the provision of Nutri-packs valued at ₱3,536,531.50.

SATOCA’s success demonstrates the transformative potential of public-private collaboration in Western Visayas. Their growth from a small cooperative to an award-winning enterprise showcases the impact of targeted government initiatives like the SSF program.

The award not only recognizes SATOCA’s excellence but also highlights the effectiveness of government efforts in empowering local businesses.

“SATOCA’s achievement serves as an inspiration for other MSMEs in the region and demonstrates the potential for growth and innovation when public and private sectors collaborate effectively,” said Nufable.

As Western Visayas continues to develop its local industries, the success of projects like SATOCA’s SSF initiative paves the way for increased economic opportunities and improved livelihoods for communities across the region.