Operations of Microfinance Cooperatives in Sorsogon: A Twin Case Study

This study would like to explore the issues faced specifically by microfinance cooperative institutions and the narratives on the operation of microfinance cooperative institutions in Sorsogon that were not included in the previous studies reviewed, which can be a concrete basis for intervention. It determines the status of microfinance cooperative institutions’ operations. It determines the issues encountered by the Microfinance Cooperative Institutions along with the operations established. The lessons learned by the MFC Institutions were drawn from the participants’ narratives. The study is a descriptive qualitative case that focuses on assessing the status of the case of microfinance cooperatives in the First District of Sorsogon.The following were found regarding the status of operations of the microfinance cooperatives. As to the number of active accounts, the bigger and more branches, the more active accounts. The bigger MFC offers more varied products and services. As to the number of active accounts, the bigger and more branches, the more active accounts.  On financial viability, they ensure good standing by setting performance targets and exceeding them. The issues encountered by the MFCs identified internal structures such as inter-departmental and intra-departmental relationships, processes, and systems as one major issue.In light of the findings, the study drew the following conclusions: (1) The geographical location has minimal effect on the marketing efforts of MFCs. The participants showed a deep reach with large active accounts. The majority of the beneficiaries are borrowers, but they are strongly urged to make micro-savings; (2) With the number of years of operation, the MFC learned that through experiences, they become more resilient; and (3) They also recognized the need to diversify both their financial and non-financial products and services and that financial literacy is significant to their clients.