The Market Monitor Minding the Nation's Business
CLARK FREEPORT ZONE — The ACDI Multipurpose Cooperative (ACDI MPC) has announced the arrival of its newly acquired Cessna 408 SkyCourier last June 11 at the Clark International Airport, marking its strategic expansion into the aviation industry through its subsidiary, Leading Edge Air Services Corp. (LEASCOR).
ACDI MPC, the largest cooperative in the Philippines, is owned by active and former members of the Armed Forces of the Philippines and other uniformed personnel.
With a membership base of more than 230,000, the coop has long been recognized as one of the country’s most successful cooperatives, providing financial services, livelihood opportunities, and member-centered programs that improve the quality of life of its members and their families.
The arrival of the first-ever Cessna 408 SkyCourier in the Philippines and the Asia-Pacific region marks the cooperative’s commitment to innovation and service excellence.
ACDI MPC is chaired by Retired Major General Gilbert S. Llanto, also president of the National Alliance of Cooperatives (NAC) with some 20,000 member coops, and serves as director of the International Cooperative Alliance in Asia and Pacific (ICA-AP).
The coop’s venture into the aviation industry reflects the growing role of the Philippine cooperative sector as a significant partner in national development. Traditionally known for providing financial services and social services to their members, cooperatives are now expanding into strategic industries that contribute directly to economic growth, transportation connectivity, job generation, and countryside development.
The acquisition of the SkyCourier is an example of how cooperatives can move beyond traditional business models and become major contributors to national progress. This initiative will address critical transport and logistics requirements particularly in geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas.
The Cessna 408 SkyCourier is a next-generation twin-engine turboprop aircraft designed for versatility, efficiency, and operational flexibility. It can accommodate up to 19 passengers and can be rapidly configured for cargo operations, making it ideal for passenger transport, logistics support, humanitarian assistance, disaster response, and inter-island connectivity.
The aircraft will be operated by Leading Edge Air Services Corp. Through this investment, the ACDI MPC strengthens its participation in the aviation sector.
LEASCOR currently operates a fleet consisting of two ATR 72-500 aircraft and one King Air 200. This year, the company is expanding its fleet with the acquisition of two Cessna SkyCourier aircraft.
Based at Clark General Aviation airport, LEASCOR serves a wide range of destinations across the country. Its operations include the Zamboanga-Jolo route, charter services for mining companies, exclusive resorts, corporate clients, and customized air transport services tailored to specific customer requirements. (DCC)