A true blue co-op leader assumes the CDA leadership.

President Ferdinand Marcos has appointed Mr. Alexander Raquepo as the new Chairperson of the Cooperative Development Authority (CDA).

Raquepo’s roots in the cooperative movement run deep. As an early member of the Sta. Cruz Development Cooperative in Ilocos Sur, where his father was a pioneer, Mr. Raquepo carries a proud family legacy of cooperative involvement. He is currently the Chairperson of Sta. Cruz Savings & Development Cooperative (SACDECO), which manages Php 3 billion in assets for 57,000 members across Northern Luzon.

Mr. Raquepo’s commitment to cooperative development extends beyond finance. He has been a steadfast advocate of gender equality, frequently serving as a resource speaker on women leadership development in cooperative events organized by NATCCO. 

His leadership and vision have also been recognized in the political arena, having served as Chief of Staff to COOP-NATCCO Partylist Representative Jose R. Ping-ay. This experience has given him deep insights into cooperative laws and legislation processes.

When he was appointed, Mr. Raquepo was serving as President of the COOP-NATCCO Partylist (CNPL), a position that reflects the trust and confidence he enjoys among cooperative leaders across the Philippines. 

Moreover, Mr. Raquepo Chaired the National Cooperative Development Council (NCDC) from 2022 to 2024.  The NCDC is a multi-sectoral body consisting of the Chairpersons of the Regional Cooperative Development Councils, legislators, representatives from LGUs, National Alliance of Cooperatives (NAC), and the academe.

The previous CDA Chairman, USec Joseph Encabo, in a Certificate of Recognition dated October 1, 2024 said:  "As a key member of this consultative mechanism of the CDA, you have played an instrumental role in fostering the harmonization of cooperative policies and programs.   Your contributions and leadership have significantly enhanced the cooperative movement's impact on national development."

Alex, as he is known in the co-op sector, was endorsed by many co-op leaders, including the NATCCO Network and even the Association of Asian Confederation of Credit Unions (AACCU).

In its endorsement letter addressed to the President, NATCCO Network said: “His distinguished leadership has been pivotal in advancing cooperative advocacy, and his appointment as Chairperson of the CDA would ensure the growth of the sector as a vital driver of inclusive economic development.  Raquepo has clearly proven his mettle as a leader of leaders.”