30/08/2026
PECCI Staff Team Building: Building a Stronger Team for a Stronger Cooperative
The PECCI Multipurpose Cooperative successfully conducted its much-anticipated Staff Team Building from August 20-22, 2026, at Club Balai Isabel in Talisay, Batangas. The three-day activity provided PECCI staff with an opportunity to strengthen teamwork, develop meaningful relationships, enhance collaboration, and reinforce their commitment to serving the cooperative’s members.
The program was facilitated by the National Federation of Cooperatives in the Philippines (NAFECOOP) and the Cooperative College of the Philippines, led by Coach Ana Mendoza.
During his opening remarks, General Manager Sergio “Serge” Navarra shared the familiar parable of “Sharpening the Axe.” The story tells of a woodcutter who was hired by a timber merchant and managed to cut 50 trees on his first day, 25 on the second day, and only 10 on the third day. Concerned about the declining productivity, his employer asked him why he was cutting fewer and fewer trees and when he had last sharpened his axe.
The woodcutter replied that he had been too busy cutting trees to find time to sharpen his axe.
GM Serge emphasized that the story carries an important lesson that applies to everyone in the workplace. Constant effort without taking time for renewal can eventually lead to burnout, decreased productivity, and diminishing results. Like the woodcutter, employees can become so focused on accomplishing their daily responsibilities that they forget to pause, recharge, and improve the tools and skills necessary to perform their work effectively.
He explained that “sharpening our axe” means taking time to rest, learn new skills, expand our knowledge, strengthen our abilities, and reflect on how we can improve. While a team-building activity may appear to be a temporary pause from regular work, it is, in fact, an investment in becoming more effective, productive, and committed employees.
In his inspirational message, Chairperson Alvin P. Santos warmly welcomed all PECCI staff to the 2026 Team Building. He emphasized the importance of being fully present throughout the activity, stepping outside one’s comfort zone, and building meaningful connections with colleagues, particularly with those whom participants had not previously had the opportunity to work closely with.
He encouraged everyone to embrace the activity as an opportunity to strengthen relationships, foster collaboration, and work together toward a more united and empowered PECCI.
Chairperson Alvin also reflected on the identity and values of PECCI as he launched the 2026-2027 battle cry anchored on three key pillars:
“Kasi sa PECCI, ang pagtulong… MASAYA!”
“Kasi sa PECCI” – Our Foundation. This represents the culture and values that guide PECCI, including good governance, the independence of the Audit Committee, and maintaining the vital balance between the Policy and Management Divide. It also calls for nurturing the traditions and best practices that have contributed to PECCI’s success while having the courage to leave behind practices that no longer serve the cooperative.
“Ang Pagtulong…” – Our Purpose. This highlights PECCI’s commitment to excellent customer service, collaboration, synergy, skills sharing, and the empowerment of officers and staff across committees and functions. Every individual has a role to play in helping the cooperative fulfill its purpose and serve its members better.
“MASAYA!” – Our Energy. This reflects the mindset and attitude that define the organization. It is a conscious choice to promote positivity, happiness in the workplace, and fulfillment in everything we do. A positive work environment strengthens relationships and enables employees to perform their responsibilities with greater enthusiasm and purpose.
In his closing remarks, Vice Chairperson Marv Kevin Santos expressed his appreciation to Coach Ana Mendoza and her team for understanding and effectively addressing the different cultures, experiences, and dynamics within PECCI.
He emphasized that the lessons and insights gained during the team-building activity would only become meaningful if participants translated them into action and made a conscious effort to improve themselves and contribute positively to the organization.
He further reminded everyone that, despite having different roles and responsibilities, PECCI is one team, and every member of the organization must be able to count on one another.
The team-building activity reinforced several important lessons that participants can bring back to their respective workplaces. One of the key messages was that “no race is won alone.” Success requires cross-functional collaboration, open communication, and a willingness to support one another.
The activity also emphasized that every role in PECCI ultimately serves the members. Regardless of position or department, each employee contributes to the cooperative’s overall success and to the quality of service provided to its members.
Participants were likewise reminded of the importance of clear accountability, operational excellence, and process consistency. Working as one team requires everyone to understand their responsibilities, take ownership of their work, and consistently uphold established processes and standards.
Finally, the team building highlighted the need for clear, respectful, and member-centered interactions. Every encounter with a member is an opportunity to demonstrate PECCI’s values and commitment to service.
