BAGO City, Negros Occidental – For decades, the residents of Purok Sunflower in Barangay Binubuhan in this city lived in the shadows, their lives illuminated only by the flickering flames of kerosene lamps. Electricity, a modern convenience taken for granted by many, remained a distant dream. But on a recent day, a wave of joy and hope swept through this community as Negros Power, with unwavering dedication, brought light to their lives.
The ceremonial switch-on of the Sitio Electrification Program in Purok Sunflower on March 10 marked a momentous occasion, bringing electricity to nearly 90 homes.
The project, featuring the longest power line constructed under Negros Power’s electrification initiative, spanned 36 spans, with 60 newly installed electric poles and three transformers.
For Amelita Boltes, a 71-year-old resident, the arrival of electricity was a long-awaited blessing.
“Mabudlay gid mag-gawi kung wala suga,” she shared, her voice filled with emotion. “Tigulang na ako, 71 anyos na pero wala gid ko kaagi nga may kuryente sa balay gani subong nalipay gid ako kay indi na delikado sa akon kapin na gid kun gab-i,” she said.
Jobert Quatero, the purok president, echoed the sentiments of his community: “Iban di sa amon nagtaliwan na lang nga wala nagana sa ila panimalay. Dugay na ni namon nga handom nga magkakuryente, gani dako gid ang amon pasalamat sa Negros Power nga sa madugay nga panahon, may kasanag na sa amon purok.”
This project is a testament to Negros Power’s unwavering commitment to energizing all areas within its franchise over the next three years.
The company’s sincerity and dedication to bringing progress to even the most remote communities is evident in the words of Roel Z. Castro, chief executive officer and president of Negros Power.
“We want everyone, every sitio, to have electricity,” he stated emphatically. “If the city has electricity, the sitios should have it, too. We are committed to this mission, and we will do it. We are here to help, and we will deliver on our promises.”
The ceremonial switch-on was a celebration of hope, progress, and the transformative power of electricity for the residents of Purok Sunflower. The arrival of light signifies a new chapter, a brighter future filled with possibilities
Negros Power, through its dedication to community service and its commitment to bringing light to every corner of its franchise, has not only illuminated homes but also ignited a sense of optimism and pride in the hearts of the people it serves.
The event was attended by key officials from Negros Power, along with local government officials from Bago City and Barangay Binubuhan, all united in celebrating this momentous milestone.
“We voted for this new franchisee because we knew they would bring the funds and the capital for rural electrification,” declared Bago City’s Mayor Nicholas Yulo, addressing the residents of Purok Sunflower. “We are grateful to be prioritized by Negros Power, and we are confident that within a few years, 100% of Bago City will be energized.”
The mayor’s words were echoed by Vice Mayor Ramon Torres: “They have long wanted to provide quality power service to our city. You should be proud because you are the first in Bago City to benefit from this program. After you, they will also bring light to the sitios in the other areas.”
The project serves as a beacon of hope, demonstrating the power of collaboration and the transformative impact of bringing electricity to many more remote communities in Central Negros that have long been in the dark./PN
