By ERWIN ‘AMBO’ DELILAN
THE NEOPHYTE Enrique Razon-led Negros Electric and Power Corporation (NEPC) is on a path towards “greatness”.
The recently introduced House Bill (HB) No. 9310 in Congress signifies a step towards empowering Central Negros Electric Cooperative (Ceneco). We owe thanks to Negros Occidental 4th District’s Rep. Juliet Marie Ferrer and others for sponsoring the proposed statute, which will mark the “baptism” of NEPC via a new congressional franchise.
NEPC emerged from the recently approved joint venture agreement (JVA) between Ceneco and Primelectric Holdings, Incorporated (PHI). Once a congressional franchise is secured, NEPC will become the newest power distributor to over 200,000 households in the cities of Bacolod, Talisay, Bago, and Silay, and the towns of Murcia and Don Salvador Benedicto (DSB).
The Promise
NEPC, as promised, is “beyond ready” to invest P2 billion for an immediate upgrade of the facilities and equipment of Ceneco.
NEPC is the sister company of MORE Electric and Power Corporation (MORE Power), a “trusted” power distributor in Iloilo City. And once again, as MORE Power president and CEO Roel Castro previously promised, “we will never frustrate Bacolodnons and Negrosanons.”
I know Sir Roel. Once he makes a promise, he delivers, often exceeding expectations. He’s a man of integrity — simple, humble, yet believable. He genuinely “walks the talk”.
Not an ‘Easy Stride’
NEPC’s entry into Bacolod and Negros is underscored by three major objectives: reducing system loss, lowering electricity rates, and minimizing occurrences of brownouts. Power consumers in Bacolod and Negros Occidental eagerly anticipate these improvements.
Yes, modernizing Ceneco’s power line assets is not an “easy stride” for NEPC. It will undoubtedly face numerous challenges. But Sir Roel is “tested and proven”. I am confident he will deliver the very best to thoroughly satisfy both Bacolodnons and Negrosanons.
‘Super City’
For Bacolod to become a “Super City”, it needs NEPC. A stable and reliable power supply is key and builds investors’ confidence. A glitch in power supply distribution is unacceptable. It demoralizes power consumers and, worse, repels investors.
Purpose-Driven
Beyond modernization, NEPC has a deeper “purpose” – to illuminate the remaining unlit sitios in DSB, Murcia, Talisay, Silay, and Bago. Although these areas are secluded, I am confident that NEPC is fully prepared for this challenge.
Like MORE Power, NEPC, I believe, is a purpose-driven company. Thus, DSB Mayor Mac-Mac de la Cruz harbors wishes for the total electrification of their town. DSB is a mountainous locality, but Mayor De la Cruz is optimistic that NEPC may grant his fervent wish.
‘Sitio’ Electrification Program
The electrification of sitios can generate significant economic and social impacts. It’s a truth, not a myth, serving as a reminder for NEPC to fulfill such an undertaking “with a heart”. This is called the Sitio Electrification Program (SEP).
SEP is strictly mandated by the National Electrification Administration (NEA). However, SEP encounters numerous obstacles. Just recently, in the congressional hearing for the P2.59-billion proposed budget of the Department of Energy for the upcoming year, Sen. Loren Legarda expressed her “wish” for total electrification of the country. But she received no assurance from DOE executives. Not even her colleague, Sen. Win Gatchalian, chairman of the Senate’s committee on energy, could affirmatively respond to the senator. SEP remains a “complex issue” nationwide.
Toilsome but Gratifying
In Bacolod and Negros, NEPC, I believe, is more than prepared for the SEP mandate. We wish to see NEPC as the “beacon of hope” for Bacolodnons and Negrosanons who remain in the dark. It’s toilsome to contemplate, but fulfilling to accomplish.
“Because electricity,” as Indian politician Piyush Goyal pointed out, “can really transform people’s lives not just economically but also socially.”
Without doubt, NEPC is poised to become the next “Mighty Economic & Social Transformer” in Negros and Bacolod./PN
