INCLUSIVE GROWTH THROUGH HUMAN RESOURCES COOPERATIVES: IDENTIFYING BEST EMPLOYMENT PRACTICES IN NAGA CITY

This study aimed to identify the best employment practices of a selected cooperative in Naga City and examine their contribution to inclusive growth and decent work. It addressed the problem of limited research on how cooperatives implement fair, equitable, and inclusive employment systems, particularly in local contexts where marginalized groups face persistent barriers to economic participation. Using a descriptive-evaluative research design, the study gathered data through surveys, key informant interviews to assess practices on recruitment, employee development, job security, inclusivity, innovation, and working conditions. The findings revealed that cooperatives demonstrated strong organizational commitment to human capital development and inclusive governance. Recruitment practices were aligned with cooperative values, employee development was supported through training programs, and job security was prioritized. Inclusivity and innovation were actively promoted, while areas such as career advancement communication and member participation in innovation required further improvement. The study concluded that cooperatives in Naga City had matured in their human resource systems, reflecting principles consistent with the Diversity Management Maturity Model (DMMM), Strategic Human Capital Theory, and Stakeholder Theory. These practices enhanced employee satisfaction, organizational resilience, and long-term sustainability. It recommended strengthening communication on career pathways, expanding inclusive innovation programs, and deepening collaboration with the Naga City Cooperative Development Office. These efforts would help institutionalize inclusive employment and position cooperatives as models of participatory development and decent work in the region.