BACOLOD City – The Negros Electric and Power Corp. (NEPC) is set to implement an amnesty program targeting over 6,000 illegal electrical connections within the Central Negros Electric Cooperative’s (Ceneco) jurisdiction once it takes control.
This move is part of NEPC’s broader strategy to improve service delivery following a Joint Venture Agreement (JVA) with Ceneco.
NEPC president and chief executive officer Roel Castro announced that the amnesty will commence on August 1, providing a month-long window for unauthorized users to regularize their connections without facing back billing or penalties.
“They will still need to pay moving forward, but this program aims to encourage illegal users to legalize their connections with no additional charges, just the standard process of application,” Castro clarified.
The announcement came during the NEPC Press Seminar on Power 101 and rate setting, which took place on July 18, in Bacolod City.
Castro expressed hope that NEPC could finally secure its franchise before the month’s end, noting that House Bill 9805, which would grant NEPC the franchise, is awaiting the President’s signature.
Once approved, the franchise will empower NEPC to operate and enhance electricity distribution in areas including Bacolod, Bago, Talisay, and Silay, along with the municipalities of Murcia and Don Salvador Benedicto.
In preparation for its anticipated operations, NEPC recently opened a temporary office in the city, located on the second floor of Robinsons East Mall, Barangay Villamonte. This office will accommodate NEPC’s corporate and operational staff and a customer care center, reinforcing the company’s readiness and commitment to address consumer needs from day one.
“The opening of this office is a testament to our commitment to our consumers. It represents both our headquarters and a space for consumer engagement,” said Castro, emphasizing NEPC’s dedication to its service obligations./PN
