News Details

CDA Assistant Secretary Virgilio Lazaga, MD –BOD, Honored as “Champion of Cooperative Development and Public Service” by OFW KAKAMMPI

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December 2, 2025

November 30, 2025 | Pasay City, Philippines In a powerful celebration of leadership, compassion, and service to the Filipino people, the Cooperative Development Authority (CDA) Assistant Secretary for the Agri-Sector, Dr. Virgilio Lazaga, was awarded the prestigious “Champion of Cooperative Development and Public Service” recognition by KAKAMMPI (Kapisanan ng mga Kamag-anak at Migranteng Manggagawang Pilipino, Inc.) during a heartfelt ceremony held this November 2025 at Selah Pods, Pasay City.

The award stands as a testament to Dr. Lazaga’s exemplary leadership, steadfast dedication, and distinguished public service—qualities that have strengthened cooperative development nationwide while empowering communities, especially those directly impacted by migration, agriculture, and climate-related challenges.

A Champion for Filipino Communities

Asst. Sec. Lazaga has long been admired for his vision of a cooperative-driven Philippines where every Filipino—especially farmers, fisherfolk, and OFW families—has access to opportunities for sustainable livelihood. His work in the Agri-Sector under the CDA has sparked the expansion of climate-smart, community-based cooperatives that uplift local economies while enhancing resilience in vulnerable communities.

KAKAMMPI honored him not only for his administrative accomplishments but for his heart:
“His leadership reflects the spirit of bayanihan—building strong, sustainable communities through collective action.”

KAKAMMPI: Empowering Filipino Migrant Families Since 1983

Founded in 1983, KAKAMMPI is a pioneering non-profit organization dedicated to serving Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) and their families. At the event, the organization reiterated its bold vision:

“To see the day that working overseas is a matter of choice rather than necessity.”

Recognizing the urgent link between migration and climate change, KAKAMMPI continues to expand programs that protect OFWs from environmental vulnerabilities and socio-economic pressures.

Building Stronger Communities Through Programs and Advocacy

During the ceremony, KAKAMMPI highlighted its diverse and impactful programs:

• Child Learning & Development Centers for OFWs’ children and vulnerable families
• Family Wellness and Reintegration Programs
• Gender Responsiveness Initiatives supporting women OFWs
• Economic Reintegration through Micro-finance and Cooperatives
• Advocacy & Case Documentation for labor rights and welfare
• Organizational Development and Global Partnerships

These initiatives reflect KAKAMMPI’s commitment to holistic support—addressing not only the economic but also the emotional, social, and environmental challenges faced by OFWs.

A Shared Mission for an Empowered Filipino Nation

In his message, Dr. Lazaga expressed deep gratitude for the recognition and emphasized the power of unity:

“Cooperatives transform lives. When government, communities, and organizations like KAKAMMPI come together, we build pathways where no Filipino is left behind.”

The event concluded with a renewed call for collaboration—urging stakeholders, partners, and the public to support programs that uplift OFWs, strengthen local cooperatives, and build climate-resilient communities throughout the Philippines.

Get Involved with KAKAMMPI

KAKAMMPI invites the public and partners to join its mission by:

• Donating to sustain climate-resilient and welfare programs
• Volunteering expertise and time
• Spreading awareness on the intersection of migration and climate change

Through collective action, the dream becomes real:
A future where Filipinos thrive—whether at home or abroad.

Congratulations once more to CDA Assistant Secretary Virgilio Lazaga, MD-BOD
a true Champion of Cooperative Development and Public Service.