Governance Compliance, Management Practices, and Operational Challenges of CHED-Affiliated School-Based Cooperatives in Malaybalay City, Philippines

Abstract

This study examined governance compliance, management practices, and operational challenges of Commission on Higher Education (CHED)-affiliated school-based cooperatives in Malaybalay City, Philippines. Using a qualitative multiple-case study design anchored in grounded theory, data were collected through focus group discussions, in-depth interviews, Delphi validation, and document analysis.
Findings revealed a high level of compliance with Republic Act No. 9520 and institutional by-laws, particularly in the functioning of the General Assembly and Board of Directors. Management practices were generally effective; however, gaps were observed in committee performance, leadership capacity, operational policy implementation, and strategic planning. Operational challenges were identified across planning, organizing, leading, and controlling functions.
The study further revealed that governance compliance contributes to organizational accountability, member participation, and financial sustainability. However, limitations in staffing, leadership training, and operational systems affect overall cooperative performance and member satisfaction. Findings also suggest that the integration of digital management systems and leadership development programs may enhance operational efficiency and governance effectiveness.
The study concludes that governance compliance provides a strong foundation for cooperative management, but long-term effectiveness depends on organizational capacity-building, financial sustainability, leadership competence, and system strengthening. Future studies may adopt mixed-methods approaches and include cooperatives from other regions in the Philippines to improve the generalizability and comparative value of the findings.