With Lent approaching, preparations are underway not only inside churches but also behind the scenes. Power providers are making sure everything goes smoothly. Negros Electric and Power Corporation, or Negros Power, recently announced a big achievement that will help thousands of churchgoers this Holy Week.

This achievement matters because it helps guarantee everyone can worship without power-related interruptions.

A Timely Effort for the Lenten Season

Holy Week is one of the most important religious events in the Philippines. Churches fill up with people attending masses, processions, and other traditions. This increase in attendance means higher electricity demand. Lighting, sound systems, and cooling equipment all need to work without any problems.

That’s why Negros Power started its Holy Week Church Inspection program. As of March 26, 2026, the company confirmed it has finished inspecting every church in its service area. This means they reached 100% completion.

This is more than a routine check. It is a proactive step to prevent electrical problems.

What the Inspection Covered

These inspections go beyond a quick look at wiring.

Negros Power’s technical teams carefully inspected critical electrical components, including service drops, transformers, and distribution lines that deliver electricity to churches. Each part is important for maintaining a stable, safe power supply.

The goal is clear: ensure each system handles Holy Week’s increased demand. Evening services require more lighting, sermons need strong speakers, and large crowds need extra cooling—all relying on reliable electricity.

The good news is that all inspected sites are in good, stable condition.

Why This Matters for Churchgoers

For many Filipinos, Holy Week is a time for reflection, prayer, and community. No one wants a power outage during these moments.

By completing these inspections early, Negros Power has helped ensure everyone can enjoy Holy Week without worry. Church leaders can focus on planning celebrations, and devotees can attend services without any distractions.

Engr. Mervin Dalian, Assistant Vice President for Network Development and Operations, said the company’s main goal is a safe, uninterrupted environment for the faithful. Possible risks have been handled, allowing parishes to hold activities smoothly.

Round-the-Clock Monitoring Still in Place

Even with inspections complete, their work continues.

Negros Power has its teams on blue alert for Holy Week. Maintenance crews and technical staff are ready to respond day or night.

Why is this important?

Unexpected problems can still happen. Weather, accidents, or other factors can affect power lines. With teams ready to respond at any time, issues can be fixed quickly before they get worse.

This readiness adds security for churches and communities.

How the Public Can Help

Safety is everyone’s responsibility. Negros Power has acted, but the public also plays a role.

Negros Power urges everyone to stay alert and report electrical problems. If you see flickering lights, exposed wires, or anything unusual at churches, report it promptly. This can prevent accidents and enable a fast response.

Contact Negros Power via their official hotlines or social media, available 24/7.

A Safer and More Meaningful Holy Week

This effort is about more than electricity. It ensures people focus on faith without worry.

Negros Power’s focus on safety and reliability shows how essential services support traditions. With inspections done and teams ready, churchgoers can expect a peaceful, uninterrupted Holy Week.

As you get ready for the celebrations, you can feel confident that the lights will stay on and everyone can focus on what matters most.

The post Negros Power Secures Churches Ahead of Holy Week 2026 appeared first on Bacolod Lifestyle and Travel Guide.

There are exciting changes happening in Bacolod’s power supply, giving residents and businesses something to look forward to. Negros Power is making a major investment to provide a more stable and reliable electricity supply throughout its service areas.

Let’s break it down simply so you can understand what this means for you and your community.

New Substations Coming to Key Areas in Bacolod

Negros Power plans to build two new power substations in key areas of Bacolod City. The Provincial Capitol area and the Megaworld district, both busy with economic growth, will be the sites for these new facilities.

Engr. Joe Mel Zaporteza, Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of Negros Power, says these substations are part of the company’s five-year rehabilitation and development plan. By mid-2027, there will be 13 substations in their service area.

This expansion is more than just adding new substations. It’s about making electricity more reliable for households, businesses, and industries that depend on a steady power supply.

Why These Substations Matter

Anyone who has dealt with sudden brownouts or unstable electricity knows how disruptive it can be. These new substations are meant to solve those problems.

Negros Power aims to ensure electricity flows more smoothly across the grid by strengthening the power distribution network. This should lead to fewer outages, more stable voltage, and a more reliable power supply.

In simple terms, this project is all about making sure your lights stay on and your appliances run smoothly.

₱250 Million Investment for a Stronger Grid

The two substations come with a combined budget of ₱250 million. But that is not the only investment Negros Power is making.

The company has also allocated ₱130 million for the construction of 69kV transmission lines. These lines play a crucial role in delivering electricity from substations to different areas, making the entire system more robust and reliable.

In just the past 19 months, Negros Power has spent about ₱1.3 billion to upgrade and improve its facilities. This shows a strong commitment to better power services in the region.

Faster Completion Timeline

Here is some good news. Construction of the two substations is expected to be completed within 6 to 8 months. That means residents and businesses will not have to wait too long to feel the benefits of these improvements.

Even with some delays from bad weather, including Typhoon Tino last year, Negros Power is working hard to stay on track with its goals.

Real Improvements You Can Feel

Are these upgrades really making a difference?

The answer is yes.

Negros Power saw big improvements in its performance in 2025. The System Average Interruption Frequency Index (SAIFI) improved by 38 percent, indicating fewer power interruptions.

The System Average Interruption Duration Index also improved by 67 percent. In other words, when outages happen, they don’t last as long as they used to.

These results show that the upgrades are already making a positive difference for consumers.

Underground Cable Project Nearing Completion

Another big improvement is the new underground cable system along Lacson Street in Bacolod City. This project should be finished in the next few months.

Underground cables make the power supply more reliable and also improve the city’s appearance by reducing visible wires and poles.

The project was delayed briefly by bad weather, but it is now back on schedule.

Progress of the Five-Year Development Plan

Negros Power has finished 39 percent of its five-year development plan so far. This is a strong milestone given the size of the upgrades underway.

By the end of the plan, the company aims to achieve several important goals: improved system reliability, upgraded infrastructure, enhanced safety, and more efficient power distribution.

What This Means for Bacolod and Beyond

All these changes point to one thing: a brighter, more stable future for Bacolod City and its surrounding areas.

Reliable electricity is key to economic growth. It helps businesses, attracts investment, and improves the lives of everyone in the community.

With better infrastructure, Negros Power is helping the region keep moving forward.

Why This Upgrade Matters for Everyday Consumers

Building two new substations for ₱250 million is more than just an infrastructure upgrade. It’s a move toward a more reliable and efficient power system for everyone.

As Negros Power continues to invest in its network, people can expect fewer interruptions, quicker repairs, and a better overall experience with their electricity.

If you live or work in Bacolod, these upgrades are something to look forward to.

The post Negros Power to Construct Two Substations Worth ₱250 Million appeared first on Bacolod Lifestyle and Travel Guide.

Bacolod City is growing quickly, and that means more people need dependable electricity. To meet this demand, Negros Electric and Power Corp., or Negros Power, is investing ₱630 million to improve its power infrastructure.

This investment is about more than just keeping the lights on. It will help power homes, businesses, and new developments in the city and surrounding areas.

Why Bacolod Needs a Power Upgrade

In recent years, Bacolod City’s electricity use has steadily increased. Since 2023, demand has grown by about 7 percent each year, driven by fast urban growth, more businesses, and better power service reliability.

Engr. Joe-Mel Zaporteza, vice president and chief operating officer of Negros Electric and Power Corporation, says the company now must upgrade its system to keep up with the city’s growth and support nearby communities.

If these upgrades are not made, the current system could become overloaded, causing inefficiencies and possible power outages.

Two New Substations Coming Soon

A key part of the upgrade is the construction of two new substations, which will greatly increase the city’s power capacity.

The first, the Capitol Substation, will be built on San Juan Street and should be running by the end of 2026. The second, the Megaworld Substation in The Upper East township, is set to be finished in early 2027.

Each substation will cost between ₱200 million and ₱250 million. When both are done, Negros Power will have 13 substations in total by mid-2027, up from 11.

These new substations will help prevent overloading and keep the system running smoothly. The aim is to keep the network at about 70 percent capacity, so it can handle more demand in the future.

Strengthening the Sub Transmission Network

Negros Power is also spending ₱130 million to upgrade its 69kV sub-transmission lines and build new substations.

This part of the project will improve key connections in the grid. It involves adding new lines between substations and upgrading current ones to carry more power.

A major upgrade is the Bacolod Bata line, which will increase its capacity from 126 MVA to 220 MVA. This will help the system deliver more power efficiently and support the new substations when they are ready.

The upgrades should be completed in 6 to 8 months, and preparations have already begun.

Building on Previous Investments

This new project follows earlier work by Negros Power, which took over the distribution system from Central Negros Electric Cooperative in August 2024.

In its first year, the company invested at least ₱1.3 billion to improve the network. These efforts have already made a clear difference.

Power outages now occur less often and last shorter. The System Average Interruption Frequency Index improved by 38 percent, and the System Average Interruption Duration Index improved by 67 percent.

So far, the company has finished 39 percent of its five-year development plan, putting it ahead of schedule.

What Consumers Should Expect

These upgrades will bring long-term benefits, but there may be some short-term inconveniences. During construction, consumers might have scheduled power interruptions lasting from 30 minutes up to eight hours, depending on the work.

Engr. Joe-Mel Zaporteza says it will use careful switching methods to limit disruptions and keep the number of affected households as low as possible.

The good news is that, even with this large investment, electricity rates are not expected to rise right away. Any changes would still need approval from the Energy Regulatory Commission.

Supporting Bacolod’s Bright Future

Reliable electricity is important for a city’s future, and Bacolod is no different. With big projects like Megaworld’s township, PHINMA’s Saludad project, and Rockwell Land’s Rockwell Center, the need for steady power will keep increasing.

Negros Power’s infrastructure improvements will help the city support these projects, attract more investment, and create more jobs.

Areas near Bacolod, such as Talisay City, Silay City, Bago City, Murcia, and Don Salvador Benedicto, will also benefit from a more stable grid.

Powering the Future of Bacolod

Negros Power’s ₱630 million upgrade is more than an infrastructure project. It is a strategic step to prepare Bacolod for future energy needs.

As Bacolod grows and changes, a reliable and efficient power supply will be essential for continued progress. With these upgrades underway, the city is on track for a brighter, more energized future.

The post Bacolod Power Upgrade Gets ₱630M Boost From Negros Power appeared first on Bacolod Lifestyle and Travel Guide.

Make your move

Right now, you might be paying rent, sharing expenses with friends, or helping support your parents. You’re building a life that now comes with financial responsibilities. If something unexpected happened to you, who would look after the people who rely on you? That’s where life insurance quietly steps in.

Getting a plan when you’re young is a power move. Premiums are significantly more affordable because you’re younger, healthier, and seen to be lower risk. In other words, you can lock in a better rate now instead of paying more later.

Plan ahead, just in case

At this point in your life, you may want control over your career, your money, your time, and your choices. You’re probably already budgeting, using finance apps, investing (or at least thinking about it), and side-hustling to achieve your dreams and create a secure tomorrow for your family.

Life insurance fits this focused and intentional mindset. It’s like having a back-up—a Plan B—that ensures the lifestyle that you’re building for yourself and those you love will be protected no matter what lies ahead.

Did you know that some life insurance plans also offer benefits that you can enjoy while you’re still shaping your path, alongside protection for the people who matter to you? These plans are designed to support your long-term financial goals—that dream vacation, your own place, your first car—while providing financial protection for your dependents should things not go as planned.

A trusted partner for your Plan B

It’s time to ditch the idea that life insurance is only for “grown-ups.” Today, it’s less about age and more about being prepared and making smart money moves.

You’re already chasing dreams and carving out your place in the world with your Plan A. Now you need a Plan B to safeguard your best life.

To begin your Plan B, visit any BDO branch near you and chat with the BDO Life Financial Advisor. You can also visit BDO Life’s Get a Quote page to discover life insurance plans with premium quotations that align with your needs and budget.

The post Adulting upgraded: Why getting life insurance is your best power move appeared first on Bacolod Lifestyle and Travel Guide.

TREND: THE GREAT WHITE WAY

The palette is clean and crisp for 2026 as white and other neutrals create a splash in color trends. Everything comes out bright and airy in the year 2026.  This is accounting for Cloud also being declared the color of the year and there is a reason for that. For 2026, walls, floors and ceilings are given a bare treatment to allow surfaces to breathe and just take in the calm and the cool of white.

Why it works:
White and neutral palettes instantly create a sense of openness, calm, and visual clarity. They reflect light beautifully, making spaces feel larger and more breathable while offering a timeless backdrop that works across different home sizes and lifestyles.

Try this at home:
Use white or off-white as a base for walls or large furniture pieces, then layer in warmth through textured upholstery, cushions, or rugs. Keep accessories minimal and tone-on-tone to maintain a clean, serene look.

TREND: BACK TO NATURE

This year will see a resurgence in anything and everything organic and sustainable. Furniture pieces will stand out as being fashioned by nature itself as wood and other natural materials as a driving force in design. The raw appeal of natural wood and the sustainable power of woven textures will see furniture and accessories embracing this trend. Shapes and forms will be seamless, curved and rectilinear flowing smoothly and organically creating spaces that are calm and soothing, restful and relaxed.

Why it works:
Natural materials bring warmth, texture, and authenticity into the home while promoting a more mindful, grounded way of living. This trend responds to the growing desire for spaces that feel restorative and connected to nature.

Try this at home:
Introduce wood and other natural as statement pieces, such as accent chairs, side tables, or shelving. Complement them with neutral fabrics and soft lighting to enhance the calming, organic feel.

TREND: FAT IS IN

Furniture proportions are going to be excessive, overstuffed and oversized. This is to emphasize comfort above all that is aligned with providing atmospheres that eliminate stress and chaos. It gives the feeling of being cuddled, being hugged and just falling carelessly in the arms of an ultra-comfortable sofa or bed. Accentuating the need for rest, these fat pieces of furniture become a sanctuary for the body and a stimulus for the senses – tactile, textured and luxurious.

Why it works:
Oversized, plush furniture answers the modern need for comfort, rest, and emotional well-being. These pieces create inviting spaces that encourage slowing down, relaxation, and everyday indulgence.

Try this at home:
Choose a deep, cushioned sofa, a generously padded bedframe, or a plush recliner. Balance the volume with neutral colors and clean surroundings so the space feels cozy, not crowded.

TREND: COORDINATING AND COMBINING

Mixing and matching pieces around the house becomes an exercise in eclecticism in 2026. A dining table can see a mélange of six different dining chairs thrown into the mix and living rooms can elicit prints and patterns thrown together and different pieces of furniture combined to create an Avante-garde yet coordinated approach. This exhibits an air of creativity, a splash of whimsy yet a well-curated mix.

Why it works:
This trend allows personal expression and creativity to take center stage, resulting in interiors that feel collected rather than overly styled. When thoughtfully curated, mixed elements feel intentional, dynamic, and visually engaging.

Try this at home:
Mix dining chairs in similar tones but varied shapes or combine patterned cushions with plain upholstery. Anchor the look with a shared color palette to keep the mix cohesive.

TREND: EARTHY and ELEGANT

Textures are raw, yet they feel resplendent. For this new year, terracotta, earthenware and clay are the big names in accessories and accoutrements. This mix provides an ode to the organic and sustainable, but the approach is different – creating a textural paradox that stems from something earthy yet presented in an elegant finish. This mix is something that allows the home the natural ambiance of earth but with a posh and sophisticated appeal to it.

Why it works:
Earth-based materials add depth and warmth while refined finishes elevate the overall look. This balance creates spaces that feel grounded yet sophisticated, organic yet polished.

Try this at home:
Style shelves, tables, or consoles with ceramic vases, clay décor, or textured planters. Pair these accessories with clean-lined furniture and neutral tones to let the materials stand out.

This 2026, watch out for all these top design trends unfolding in all OUR HOME branches nationwide. The beauty of these trends is that they can be embraced individually or layered together for a more impactful and resonant look.

Visit OUR HOME Bacolod located at the 2^nd Level North Wing of SM City Bacolod to experience these 2026 design trends through thoughtfully curated furniture and home décor selections designed to refresh your space. You may also contact a contact a Personal Shopper at 0917-5575567. Shop online at www.ourhome.ph

The post Our Home’s Top 2026 Design Trends To Refresh Your Space appeared first on Bacolod Lifestyle and Travel Guide.

Community gatherings always feel different when they are powered by purpose. That was exactly the atmosphere during the recent General Assembly of MoMs Across Philippines Negros, Inc., held on February 21, 2026, at the Barangay Handumanan Gym. Mothers, community leaders, and local residents showed up not just to attend, but to actively participate.

The assembly served as a platform to discuss important updates on the organization, ongoing advocacy initiatives, and pressing community concerns. It was more than just a meeting. It was a space for empowerment, education, and honest conversations.

If you believe in the power of grassroots movements and informed communities, this event is worth paying attention to.

A Gathering Focused on Advocacy and Community Growth

From the moment the program started at 10 in the morning, you could already feel the energy inside the gym. The organization shared updates about its recent projects and plans for the months ahead. As a group composed mainly of mothers, the discussions naturally centered around family welfare, consumer rights, and community development.

MoMs Across Philippines Negros, Inc. has continuously positioned itself as a strong voice for mothers in the province. Through regular assemblies like this, they make sure members stay informed, united, and ready to respond to community challenges.

Events like these are crucial for strengthening local organizations. They build trust, encourage participation, and keep everyone aligned with shared goals.

Negros Power Conducts Informative IEC Talk

One of the major highlights of the day was the Information, Education, and Communication Talk conducted by Negros Power.

The session was led by Rollen Balquin, Community Relations Officer of Negros Power, who presented the company’s key programs and service initiatives. Instead of simply delivering a formal presentation, the talk felt conversational and approachable.

Balquin emphasized the importance of consumer awareness. He shared that IEC activities are designed not only to inform customers but also to listen to them. According to him, open communication plays a big role in improving services and building stronger relationships between the company and the communities it serves.

This approach resonated well with the audience. When service providers step forward to explain their programs in clear and simple terms, it helps remove confusion and build trust.

Open Forum Encourages Honest Conversations

After the presentation, the floor was opened for questions. This was where the real engagement happened.

Participants raised concerns about billing, service reliability, and customer assistance. Instead of brushing these aside, representatives from Negros Power addressed each issue directly. They clarified processes, explained common billing questions, and reassured attendees about ongoing improvements.

Open forums like this are powerful. They allow consumers to speak up and feel heard. At the same time, they give companies the opportunity to correct misconceptions and provide transparency.

In today’s fast-paced world, direct dialogue between consumers and service providers is more important than ever. This General Assembly proved that meaningful conversations can happen when both sides are willing to listen.

Participants Express Appreciation

Several attendees shared positive feedback about the activity. Wella De Guzman expressed how the IEC Talk helped them better understand the programs of Negros Power. She appreciated the chance to ask questions and receive clear answers.

Felisa Goram also highlighted the importance of information sharing. For her, being informed means being empowered. When consumers understand their rights and responsibilities, they can make better decisions and raise their concerns confidently.

These reactions show how impactful community education can be. Knowledge builds confidence. And confident consumers help create accountable institutions.

Strengthening Transparency and Collaboration

By the end of the assembly, one thing was clear. Collaboration between community organizations and service providers leads to better outcomes for everyone.

The partnership between MoMs Across Philippines Negros, Inc. and Negros Power reflects a shared commitment to transparency, consumer education, and community development. Instead of working separately, they chose to create a dialogue that benefits local families.

For lifestyle readers who value community engagement, this event serves as a reminder that progress often starts at the local level. When mothers organize, when companies listen, and when open forums are encouraged, real change becomes possible.

Why Community Assemblies Matter More Than Ever

In many communities across the Philippines, access to accurate information remains a challenge. That is why general assemblies and IEC talks play a crucial role. They bridge the gap between institutions and ordinary citizens.

MoMs Across Philippines Negros, Inc. continues to demonstrate how organized groups can advocate for their members while promoting constructive partnerships. Meanwhile, Negros Power shows that service providers can strengthen their credibility through transparency and active engagement.

At the heart of it all are the mothers and families who simply want reliable services and clear communication. Events like this General Assembly remind us that when people come together with a shared purpose, communities grow stronger.

And sometimes, all it takes is one meaningful conversation inside a barangay gym to spark lasting impact.

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