NAVAL, Biliran — Cooperative leaders and members representing 39 cooperatives from Biliran, Leyte, and Samar gathered at Biliran Province State University (BiPSU) in Naval, Biliran, for the 8th BILEYSAM Coop Summit 2026, an annual event aimed at strengthening cooperation, knowledge-sharing, and partnerships among cooperatives in Eastern Visayas.
The summit brought together cooperative representatives, government officials, and development partners to promote collaboration and encourage the exchange of ideas and experiences within the cooperative sector.
Among those who attended were Cooperative Development Authority (CDA) Region VIII Director Venus M. Jornales, officers of VICTO National, local cooperative development officers, and representatives of cooperatives from various parts of the region.
BILEYSAM serves as a regional network that brings together cooperatives from Biliran, Leyte, and Samar. Through its annual summit, the network provides a platform for cooperative leaders and members to share practices, discuss common concerns, learn from one another, and explore opportunities for stronger collaboration.
The gathering also highlights the importance of partnerships among cooperatives and local government stakeholders in supporting cooperative development and improving services for members and their communities.
With the participation of 39 cooperatives, the 8th BILEYSAM Coop Summit 2026 underscored the value of collective action in building a more connected and resilient cooperative sector across Eastern Visayas.
The event reaffirmed the role of regional cooperative networks in encouraging mutual support, strengthening institutional relationships, and promoting the continued growth of cooperatives in Biliran, Leyte, and Samar. END #evchub8
Photos of 8th BILEYSAM Coop summit 2026 are available for viewing at Eastern Visayas Communities Gallery