Congressional Approval Advances NEPC Franchise, Signifying a Crucial Development in Central Negros Power Dynamics
In a pivotal session convened on November 13 at the Mitra Building in Batasan Complex, the House Committee on Legislative Franchise granted preliminary approval to the franchise proposal set forth by the Negros Electric and Power Corporation (NEPC).
This landmark decision follows a thorough examination of the initiative, presented by four Negrense lawmakers: Representatives Juliet Marie Ferrer, Stephen Paduano, Kiko Benitez, and Greg Gasataya.
Under the stewardship of Chairperson Gus Tambunting, the Committee engaged in substantive discussions about House Bill 9310, delineating the transfer of the franchise from the beleaguered Central Negros Electric Cooperative (CENECO) to NEPC. The franchise’s jurisdiction includes the cities of Bacolod, Bago, Silay, and Talisay, along with the Municipalities of Murcia and Don Salvador Benedicto.
During the deliberations, Negrense representatives fervently emphasized the imperative nature of NEPC’s intervention, highlighting the financial challenges faced by CENECO. These challenges emanate from a deficiency in Capital Expenditures crucial for modernizing existing facilities.
Distinguished figures from both NEPC and CENECO, alongside representatives from the National Electrification Administration, Energy Regulatory Commission, and Securities and Exchange Commission, were in attendance, underscoring the gravity of the decision.
A focal point of the discussions centered on the Joint Venture Agreement (JVA), specifically focusing on the conduct and outcome of its ratification through a plebiscite. Most consumers supported the JVA, reinforcing the rationale behind the proposed transition.
In a decisive conclusion, the Committee granted, in principle, approval to the proposed house bill. However, this approval is subject to the submission of specific documentary requirements.
NEPC President Roel Castro affirmed the commitment to submit the required documents and provide written responses to the concerns raised by certain committee members. This step signifies a critical juncture in reshaping the energy landscape in Central Negros, with NEPC poised to assume a transformative role in the region’s electric distribution service.
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