The “Rise and fall” Experiences of Community Organizations: A Case Study of Four Farmers Cooperatives in Maguindanao, Southern Philippines
Radzak A. Sam, Annierah Maulana Usop, Solayha Abubakar–Sam

Abstract
This paper highlights the experiences of four farmers’ cooperatives in the conflict areas of Maguindanao, Southern Philippines. Initially, these four cooperatives rise and became productive by operating viable economic activities, and served the coop members in their respective communities. However, later only two remained, the other two failed and subsequently stopped their operations. Using a case study method of analysis, the research found that for cooperatives to continuously rise and operate viable economic activities, the following organizational factors are critical: a) leadership; b) dynamism and versatility in income-generating activities; and c) efficient utilization of resources. The coops’ purposes and objectives, and organization and management appear not to be critical at all. Coop networks and assistance extended by government agencies and international organizations proved to be contributing factors for coops’ viable operations. However, links with nongovernmental organizations, local governments and coop federations and unions did not appear to be critical for the coops’ survival. Private sectors also assisted coops by providing technical know - how, and in marketing their products. Finally, despite of difficulties in operations, the political, economic and social environments appeared to have negative impact on the coops operation.

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