City of Imus, Cavite – The story of Toclong’s 1st Multi-Purpose Cooperative is a testament to adaptability, vision, and an unwavering commitment to meeting the needs of its community. Founded in 1982, the cooperative began as Samahang Nayon ng Magsasaka, later transitioned into a Lending Cooperative, and eventually evolved into a Multi-Purpose Cooperative in July 1994.
In 2010, Mr. Ernesto Adajar, Chairman of the Board, along with Mr. Bienvenido Esguerra and Ms. Jelli Dela Cruz, members of the Board of Directors, encouraged the cooperative’s members to embark on a new venture: transforming the multi-purpose cooperative into the producer of a flagship product. This product would not only represent the cooperative but also aim to become a symbol of the City of Imus, known for its longganisa, now called Toclongganisa.
In 2011, Toclongganisa was initially offered to the cooperative’s board members. By 2012, it was introduced to the general membership, where its garlicky flavor and exceptional quality quickly garnered attention. By 2013, the product was made available to the public, gaining widespread popularity. This success led to increased recognition, and from 2015 to 2017, the cooperative received frequent invitations from the Provincial Cooperative, Livelihood, and Entrepreneurial Development Office (PCLEDO) to participate in trade fairs. Moreover, the cooperative was honored with the opportunity to showcase its products at Likhang Caviteño and Kadiwa ng Pangulo, further solidifying its reputation.
The cooperative’s success has been strengthened by the support of various government agencies. Starting with small equipment, they gradually invested in additional tools and machinery to enhance longganisa production. The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) and the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) provided them with machinery and equipment, significantly boosting their production capabilities.
Under the leadership of Ms. Dulce Bautista, former General Manager of Toclong’s 1st Multi-Purpose Cooperative’s, the cooperative participated in the Department of Trade and Industry’s (DTI) programs, including KMME (Kapatid Mentor Micro Enterprises) in 2017, which helped them develop a Business Improvement Plan, and OTOP (One Town, One Product) in 2018, through which they received assistance to enhance their product packaging.
As a result of these efforts, they began receiving orders from various cities and municipalities, such as Noveleta, Silang, and Kawit in Cavite. Additionally, their product was featured in Imus Pasyalubong Center and promoted through City of Imus Cooperative Livelihood and Entrepreneurial and Enterprise Development Office (CICLEDO). It also became a staple inclusion whenever the City of Imus organized major events, where tokens were distributed.
Toclong’s 1st Multi-Purpose Cooperative offers a range of services, including savings, lending, and the production of longganisa, which now comes in three flavors: Garlic, Spicy, and Hamonado. In addition, it plays a vital role as a guardian cooperative for schools, currently supporting four schools and one community. However, when the pandemic struck, it brought unprecedented challenges to many of their operations. Amid these difficulties, their longganisa emerged as the cooperative’s primary source of income. Its consistent demand not only helped sustain the multi-purpose cooperative but also significantly boosted their sales, proving to be a lifeline during a critical time. Driven by unwavering dedication, they consistently pushed the boundaries of innovation in food production. Their efforts led to the creation of distinctive products like Skinless Longganisa, Bagoong Longganisa, and Chili Garlic Sauce, which earned recognition under the One-Coop, One Product program through CICLEDO, further cementing their reputation for excellence in the industry.
Starting with just 20 members in 1982, Toclong’s 1st Multi-Purpose Cooperative has grown into a dynamic organization of 540 members by 2024, guided by the leadership of Ms. Cecilia Lorenzana, the current Chairman of the Board, Ms. Jocelyn Mercado, Treasurer, and Ms. Ruth Dela Cruz, General Manager. Their story is a powerful example of how collective effort, strategic government support, and a steadfast commitment to progress can drive meaningful change. The cooperative’s longganisa, once a humble product, has evolved into much more than a source of income—it has become a symbol of the community’s shared success, unity, and their collective mission to foster growth and prosperity for all members.
“Asenso, no worries na!” – Toclong’s 1st Multi-Purpose Cooperative ♦
Date of release: 27 February 2025