Councilor Riza Mae Llaneta: Strengthening Cooperativism and Social Justice Through Sustainable Action

In her steadfast commitment to empowering local cooperatives and advancing social justice, City Councilor Riza Mae A. Llaneta, Chairperson of the Committee on Cooperatives, continues to amplify the spirit of cooperativism in the City of Tayabas. Known for her advocacies toward economic inclusion and community solidarity, Councilor Llaneta has been an active force in crafting legislative measures that uplift cooperative members and enhance their socio-economic standing.

A Symbol of Growth and Unity

On October 24, 2025, Councilor Llaneta joined the City Cooperative Office, the City Environment and Natural Resources Office (CENRO), and numerous local cooperative groups in a tree planting activity held in celebration of Cooperative Month at Forest Land, Barangay Ibabang Palale. The event highlighted not only the camaraderie among cooperatives but also their shared commitment to environmental stewardship and community growth.

A total of 500 seedlings — composed of narra, sampaloc, cacao, and yakal trees — were planted during the activity. This initiative served multiple purposes: reforestation, countryside greening, and environmental protection. More than just a symbolic gesture, the activity underscored that cooperatives in Tayabas extend their influence beyond economic pursuits, actively engaging in social and environmental services that benefit future generations.“When we plant trees, we also plant hope — hope for the environment, for our communities, and for a stronger cooperative movement,” Councilor Llaneta shared during the event, emphasizing how collective action can create long-lasting impact.

Legislative Support for Cooperative Empowerment

As a legislator, Councilor Llaneta is determined to introduce progressive measures that will enhance the sustainability and inclusivity of the cooperative sector. Among her advocacies are:

• Incentivizing Cooperative Membership — promoting tax reliefs and recognition programs for active cooperatives that contribute to local employment and livelihood development.
• Capacity Building and Financial Literacy Programs — ensuring that members gain access to continuous education, training, and entrepreneurial guidance.
• Strengthening Cooperative Linkages — encouraging partnerships between urban and rural cooperatives to foster resource-sharing, innovation, and mutual support.
• Youth cooperative development programs to encourage early participation and innovation among students and young professionals.
• Priority access to LGU procurement and service contracts for cooperatives, especially those in agriculture, transport, and water services.

Through these efforts, Councilor Llaneta aims to make cooperative membership not just an economic advantage but also a pathway toward empowerment and social equity.

Beyond Economics: The Cooperative as a Social Force

The recent tree planting activity symbolized the cooperative principle of “concern for community.” Beyond being self-help groups, Tayabas cooperatives now emerge as dynamic partners in environmental advocacy and civic participation. 

“Cooperatives thrive on unity,” Councilor Llaneta noted. “Our collective efforts — whether in business, social welfare, or environmental causes — bring us closer to the essence of cooperativism.”

Beyond ecological impact, the tree-planting initiative amplified a deeper message—that cooperatives are not merely self-help economic groups, but also agents of social and environmental service. Councilor Llaneta emphasized that such activities build awareness and solidarity, reminding citizens that cooperatives are rooted in shared values and collective responsibility.

Looking Ahead: A Sustainable and Just Cooperative Future

As the City of Tayabas continues to foster a thriving cooperative ecosystem, Councilor Llaneta assures that the Sangguniang Panlungsod will remain a strong legislative partner in preserving the virtues, identity, and principles of cooperativism — democracy, equity, solidarity, and care for the community.

In the coming months, the cooperative sector can look forward to new projects focusing on eco-enterprise development, community markets, and digital cooperative platforms aimed at expanding opportunities for all.With leaders like Councilor Riza Mae A. Llaneta at the helm, the cooperative movement in Tayabas is not only growing stronger but also becoming a pillar of inclusive and sustainable progress — one tree, one member, and one community at a time. (JRS)