Kalinga’s THIRD billionaire cooperative, PEOPMC, breaks ground on FOUR-Storey Landmark Building

Tabuk City, Kalinga – The Provincial Engineering Office Personnel Multi-Purpose Cooperative (PEOPMC), recently recognized as the third cooperative in the province to surpass ₱1 billion in total assets, formally launched the construction of its multi-storey building on February 25 in San Juan, Tabuk City, marking a significant milestone in the cooperative’s continued growth and long-term development.

The four-storey building, according to Board of Directors (BOD) member Director Domingo Bakilan, is envisioned to become a central hub for PEOPMC’s enterprises and administrative operations. He also outlined the planned layout and designated uses of each floor.

“The ground floor will house our general merchandise and water refilling businesses, as well as spaces for lease or ‘pwesto’ and a parking lot. The second floor will accommodate the PEOPMC offices — the management and staff offices, the manager’s office, the cashiering office, and the board room. The third floor will be the PEOPMC Hotel, restaurant, music and bar area, while the fourth floor will serve as the convention center. That was the agreed planned use of the building,” he shared.

The project stems from the cooperative’s long-standing vision to own a permanent site and establish a building fully owned by the organization.

In 2024, the BOD approved the procurement of the lot, with the purchase completed in the first quarter of 2025. During its 33rd General Assembly, the general membership approved the initial budget for the building’s construction.

“From July to September 2025, the BOD sought assistance from various architects and engineers, and by September 27, 2025, bidding was conducted. After finalizing the detailed engineering designs, the procurement process commenced,” Bakilan said.

The contract was eventually awarded to Bangyan 3D Construction, managed by Engineer Max Duguiang III.

The cooperative expressed optimism that the new building will not only enhance operational efficiency but also create additional income-generating opportunities, further solidifying PEOPMC’s role as a key partner in community development in Tabuk City and the province of Kalinga.