1. Policy Statement
It is the policy of the Cooperative to ensure that all members undergo a comprehensive Pre-Membership/Ownership Education Seminar (PMES/OES). This is to promote informed decision-making, strengthen member commitment, and uphold the principles and values of cooperativism.
2. Objectives
The Pre-Membership/Ownership Education Program aims to:
- Provide current and prospectie members with a clear understanding of the Cooperative's vision, mission, and core values.
- Explain the rights, responsibilities, and obligations of membership.
- Present the Cooperative's products, services, and policies.
- Promote active participation and ownership among members.
- Ensure that only qualified and committed individuals are admitted.
3. Coverage
This policy applies to all members and individuals applying for membership to the Cooperative.
Having a Certificate of PMES/OES is a requirement to be a Member in Good Standing (MIGS).
4. Pre-Membership/Ownership Education Seminar
4.1. Structure
The PMES/OES shall be conducted through any of the following formats:
- Face-to-face seminar
- Virtual/online session
- Hybrid
- Digital PMES (self-paced)
4.2. Frequency
- Should be available regularly either via Face-to-face or online.
4.3. Duration
- At least one (1) hour, depending on depth and format delivery.
5. Course Content
The PMES/OES shall cover, at a minimum, the following topics:
5.1. Introduction to Cooperatives
- Cooperative principles and values
- Overview of the cooperative movement
5.2. HPPEMC Profile
- History and background
- VIsion, mission, and goals
- Organizational structure
5.3. Membership
- Qualifications and requirements
- Rights and privileges
- Duties and responsibilities
- Grounds for termination
5.4. Products and Services
- Savings and deposit products
- Loan programs
- Other products/services offered
5.5. Policies and Procedures
- Membership
- Credit
- Code of Conduct
- Other policies
5.6. Financial Education
- Importance of savings
- Responsible borrowing
- Basic financial literacy concepts
6. Facilitation
- The PMES/OES shall be facilitated by the Education Committee, Membership Committee, or any authorized Cooperative officer/staff.
- Resource speakers may be invited when necessary.
7. Assessment and Certification
- Participants will be required to pass a short assessment/test before receiving their Certificate of Completion.
- The Certificate of Completion may be required before availing of any Cooperative products/services.
8. Monitoring and Evaluation
- The PMES/OES program shall be reviewed periodically to ensure relevance and effectiveness.
- Feedback from participants shall be used for continuous improvement.
9. Effectivity
This policy shall take effect upon approval by the Board of Directors and shall remain in force until amended or repealed.
10. Amendments
Any amendments to this policy shall be subject to approval by the Board of Directors.