Ever since the community was formed, the residents of Purok Sunflower in Barangay Binubuhan, Bago City lived in darkness. That is literally because their community is not electrified or does not have a connection to the power grid. The families merely relied on kerosene lamps to light up their homes at night. Electricity was a distant dream—until now. Negros Power, with its dedication to rural electrification, has finally brought light to this community, paving the way for progress.
Read: Timely Solutions: NEPC’s 5-Year Development Plan for Negros Occidental
A Milestone in Electrification in Purok Sunflower, Bago City
The recent ceremonial switch-on of the Sitio Electrification Program marked a historic moment for nearly 90 households in Purok Sunflower. The project involved constructing the longest power line under Negros Power’s initiative. It spanned 36 spans and included the installation of 60 electric poles and three transformers.
For 71-year-old Amelita Boltes, the arrival of electricity was a long-awaited blessing. “Mabudlay gid mag-gawi kung wala suga,” she shared emotionally. “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.”
Similarly, Purok President Jobert Quatero expressed his gratitude: “Iban di sa amon nagtaliwan nalang 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.”
Negros Power’s Commitment to Electrification
Negros Power’s mission is clear: to energize all sitios within its franchise over the next three years. This dedication was emphasized by NEPC CEO and President Roel Z. Castro, who stated, “We want everyone, every sitio, to have electricity. 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.”
Key officials from Negros Power attended the event. Local government representatives from Bago City and Barangay Binubuhan were also present. Bago City Mayor Nicholas Yulo highlighted the significance of Negros Power’s role in rural electrification: “We voted for this new franchisee because we knew they would bring the funds and the capital for rural electrification. 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.”
Vice Mayor Ramon Torres added, “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.”
A Legacy of Service and Innovation
Negros Power officially took over as the electric distribution utility in Central Negros. The company has a deep-rooted commitment to modernization and reliable service. Its ongoing five-year development plan includes infrastructure improvements, substation upgrades, and expanding electricity access to even the most remote communities.
This latest project in Purok Sunflower is a testament to that vision. Beyond just providing power, it has ignited hope and a sense of pride among residents, proving that electricity is not just a utility but a catalyst for change.
Lighting the Path Forward
The electrification of Purok Sunflower serves as a beacon of progress, highlighting the power of collaboration between Negros Power and local governments. As more sitios are energized in the coming years, the impact of this initiative will be felt across Central Negros, driving development and improving quality of life.
With Negros Power at the helm, the future looks brighter—not just for Purok Sunflower but for all communities still waiting for the light of progress.
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