By JEN BAYLON
The Sitio Electrification Program, a collaborative effort by the National Electrification Administration (NEA) and electric cooperatives across the country, aims to provide reliable electricity to the most remote communities.
For more than six years, from 2017 to 2022, electric cooperatives have successfully energized 6,888 sitios, despite challenges such as inadequate funding and the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020.
However, approximately 10,212 sitios, excluding off-grid areas, still await electrification.
CRUCIAL ROLE
Negros Electric and Power Corp. (Negros Power) has taken on a crucial role in the Sitio Electrification Program, investing an initial P250 million to energize 232 sitios and puroks in Negros Occidental in the next three to five years.
“The Sitio Electrification Program is a mandate and commitment of Negros Power to fully electrify these sitios within a span of three to five years. We are committed to executing and providing electricity to all sitios that currently lack power,” Engineer Leomel “Bong” Tambanillo, Negros Power Assistant Vice President for Sitio Electrification Program, said.
“The mandate was for all electric cooperatives, which receive government funds for electrification efforts,” Tambanillo added.
Ceneco is one of those cooperatives that complied with the Sitio Electrification Program, until Negros Power’s takeover in August.
“Upon our takeover, we are committed to continue Ceneco’s unfinished electrification efforts, extending lines to unserved and underserved communities,” he said.
Negros Power has already begun surveying and assessing various sitios to determine their readiness for electrification.
“We have completed assessments in about 15 sitios in Don Salvador Benedicto, Talisay City and Bacolod City,” Tambanillo noted.
“We’re coordinating with local government units to expedite the facilitation of permits, considering the marginalized status of many households.”
Whether through line extensions or alternative power sources like solar or hydro, Negros Power will use available resources to supply power in remote areas.
“Our customer service team will assist with house wiring and permit processing,” Tambanillo said.
“This year, we are executing plans while assessing the readiness of households and potential consumers,” he added.
COMMITMENT TO COMMUNITY
The Sitio Electrification Program represents a significant step toward bringing light and energy to the most remote corners of the Philippines.
With a clear vision and commitment, Negros Power aims to bridge the gap in electrification, transforming lives and communities across Negros Occidental.
As they move forward, the promise of reliable electricity offers hope and opportunity for many families, illuminating a brighter future for all./JB, WDJ