Baguio Council rejects CBSTC reaccreditation over mismanagement claims

BAGUIO CITY — The Baguio City Council has denied the reaccreditation of the Cordillera Basic Sectors Transport Cooperative (CBSTC) following allegations of financial mismanagement and lack of transparency raised by its former members.

During its regular session on October 27, 2025, the council heard testimonies from ex-members led by Rolando Yambot, who accused CBSTC’s management of mishandling funds, failing to distribute dividends, and not conducting general assembly meetings since its registration in 2018.

₱114-Million Loan and Foreclosed Vehicles

Yambot disclosed that the cooperative’s financial troubles led to the repossession and foreclosure of 38 modern minibuses due to unpaid loans that ballooned from ₱69 million to ₱114 million.

He alleged that the cooperative has not submitted financial statements since its creation.

The group also accused Jude Wal, former CBSTC chairperson and now chief executive officer, of unilateral decision-making and preventing newly elected leaders from assuming office in 2023.

Council Votes 12–1 Against Reaccreditation

Citing the city’s commitment to good governance, 12 councilors voted to deny CBSTC’s reaccreditation, with Councilor Fred Bagbagen as the lone vote in favor.

Bagbagen argued that determining the cooperative’s legal status lies with the Cooperative Development Authority (CDA), not the City Council.

Council members noted CBSTC’s failure to meet accreditation requirements, including the submission of an annual report and maintaining a single principal office.

Related issues were referred to the Committee on Appropriations and Finance Cluster C for further study.

With the decision, CBSTC loses eligibility to be recognized as a civil society organization (CSO) partner of the city government.