BACOLOD City – The Senate has passed the bill that awards a franchise to the Negros Electric and Power Corporation (NEPC) for operating as a new distribution utility in Central Negros, under a Joint Venture Agreement with the Central Negros Electric Cooperative (CENECO).
During yesterday’s plenary session, the bill, known as House Bill No. 9805, received overwhelming support from the Senate, securing 22 affirmative votes.
Following the vote, Sen. Grace Poe, who chairs the Committee on Public Services, expressed her gratitude to her peers for backing the bill. She highlighted the bill’s aim to boost consumer services by ensuring continued access to affordable, reliable, and sustainable energy.
“It is my hope that the granting of franchise would pave the way for better and more expansive power service,” remarked Poe.
The need for improved services in central Negros Occidental, currently under CENECO’s scope, spurred the public support for House Bill No. 9805.
NEPC has committed to investing in the modernization of the distribution network and tackling existing operational issues.
Poe praised CENECO and NEPC for their collaboration, stating, “What’s great about this agreement is that both parties share the goal of improving the electric service for Negrenses.”
Highlighting the adaptability required by legislators, Poe noted, “We must remain open to the changing times. Our duty is to be responsive to the needs of our constituents, both now and in the future.”
She also pointed out that the new franchise is likely to attract investors and underscored the Senate’s efforts to foster a business-friendly environment, which she believes is crucial for the success of this venture and future projects.
A bicameral conference involving representatives from both houses of Congress is scheduled to refine the final version of the law before it is presented to President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. for approval./PN
