
February 21, 2024, at 3:38 PM. Recording this date on this blog for posterity. A significant milestone was reached in Congress as House Bill No. 9805 on this day as the bill received approval on its third and final reading. This House Bill grants Negros Electric and Power Corporation (NEPC) or Negros Power a franchise to operate as the distribution utility of Central Negros.
Negros Power Franchise Approval: Enhancing Electricity Distribution in Central Negros
The bill, officially titled “An Act Granting Negros Electric and Power Corp. a Franchise to Establish, Operate, and Maintain a Distribution System for the Conveyance of Electric Power to the End-Users in the Cities of Bacolod, Silay, Talisay, and Bago and the Municipalities of Murcia and Don Salvador Benedicto, All in the Province of Negros Occidental, and Ensuring Continuous and Uninterrupted Supply of Electricity in the Franchise Area.” The passage of this bill in the lower house marks a significant move towards enhancing the electricity distribution network in Central Negros Occidental.

Congressional Approval: Resounding Support for House Bill No. 9805
In a show of overwhelming support, the 19th Congress voted in favor of the bill. Two hundred twenty-five (225) supported it, while only nine (9) opposed it, and there was one (1) abstention. This resounding approval signifies a major step forward in NEPC’s mission to provide efficient and reliable electric power services to the designated areas.

Negros Power: Potential Benefits for Consumers
Transitioning to Negros Power could bring significant advantages for consumers, including:
- Lower Rates: Expect potentially cheaper electricity with Negros Power’s focus on reducing system loss. Another way they may lower rates is by sourcing power from renewable energy suppliers. This reduction in rates can positively impact household budgets and support economic growth in the region.
- Improved Reliability: Experience fewer unscheduled brownouts thanks to modern strategies and equipment upgrades by Negros Power. Enhanced reliability ensures uninterrupted power supply, reducing inconvenience and potential losses for households and businesses.
- Better Customer Service: Enjoy more responsive assistance with Negros Power’s 24/7 helpline and rapid response teams, ensuring faster outage resolutions. Access to efficient customer service enhances consumer satisfaction and fosters trust in the utility provider.
- Simplified Connections: Benefit from easier access to legal electricity connections, streamlining the process for all consumers. Simplified connections facilitate greater electrification and support economic development by enabling more businesses and households to access reliable electricity.
- Environmental Sustainability: With Negros Power’s focus on sourcing power from renewable energy suppliers, consumers can contribute to environmental sustainability by supporting clean energy initiatives. Reduced reliance on fossil fuels mitigates environmental impact and promotes a greener future for the community.
Next Steps: Senate Concurrence and Presidential Endorsement
The approved bill now advances to the Senate for its concurrence. If the Senate also gives its nod to it, the Senate President and the Speaker of the House of Representatives will affix their signature and will be duly certified by their respective secretaries. Subsequently, the President may give the bill his endorsement.
Final Implementation: The Path Forward for House Bill No. 9805
Should the President approve it, the bill will be assigned an RA (Republic Act) number, officially becoming law. This signifies the green light for NEPC to proceed with its plans outlined in the franchise. However, should the bill face a veto from the President, it will return to the House of Representatives. An explanation for the veto must accompany it. Then it will go through further deliberation and potential revisions. Hopefully, a veto will not occur.
In summary, the approval of House Bill No. 9805, also known as the Negros Power Franchise Approval, represents a significant leap toward bolstering the electrical infrastructure in Negros Occidental. This will improve the reliability of electricity for the residents and businesses within the franchise area.