Negros Power customers will see some relief in their May 2026 electricity bills. The company announced a lower residential power rate this month, which should help households, as many families keep a close eye on their monthly expenses.

In May 2026, the average residential electricity rate from Negros Electric and Power Corporation (Negros Power) dropped to P11.3808 per kilowatt hour. This is P0.8655, lower than April’s rate of P12.2463 per kilowatt hour.

Even a small drop in power rates can help, especially for households that use more electricity during the hot summer months. With fans, air conditioners, and other appliances running more often, lower rates can ease the strain on monthly budgets.

Negros Power Rates Down in May 2026

Negros Power’s latest advisory says the rate cut was mainly due to lower generation and transmission charges. Since these make up a large part of the monthly bill, any change in them affects what customers pay.

Roel Castro, President and CEO of NEPC, said the lower power rate is good news for people who are still facing higher costs for daily needs.

He added that the company knows how important affordable electricity is for families. Negros Power is also working to keep its services stable and reliable for everyone in its area.

This month’s lower rate may not cover all household expenses, but it can help families manage their power bills a bit better.

Lower WESM Charges Help Bring Down Electricity Rates

A major reason for the lower May electricity rate is the drop in charges from the Wholesale Electricity Spot Market (WESM).

According to Negros Power, WESM charges dropped from P5.8677 per kilowatt-hour to P5.0432 per kilowatt-hour during the billing period. This means a reduction of P0.8245 per kilowatt hour.

WESM prices change based on supply, demand, fuel costs, and other market factors. When these charges go down, companies like Negros Power can pass the savings to customers through lower generation charges.

In May 2026, this helped reduce the overall generation charge by P0.5332 per kilowatt-hour.

Energy Emergency Measures Also Affected Power Costs

Castro explained that the drop in WESM charges was partly due to a market suspension under Executive Order No. 110, Series of 2026. This order declared a national energy emergency due to global fuel supply issues and rising oil prices.

These events affected the power sector and influenced the charges seen in the May bills.

For most people, the technical details of the energy market can be confusing. The main point is that lower market charges helped reduce the final residential electricity rate for May.

ERC Suspension of GEA ALL Charge Adds to the Reduction

Another reason for the decrease is the suspension of the P0.0371 per kilowatt hour GEA ALL charge for the May and June 2026 bills.

The Energy Regulatory Commission announced the temporary suspension of this charge on May 8. While the amount is small, every bit helps when added to other reductions in the electricity bill.

This suspension also helped lower the total amount that residential customers pay.

Transmission Charges Also Went Down

Transmission charges also decreased this month, along with the lower generation charges.

For residential consumers, transmission charges decreased by P0.1506 per kilowatt-hour. The charge moved from P1.3657 per kilowatt-hour in April to P1.2151 per kilowatt-hour in May.

Transmission charges pay for moving electricity from power plants through the grid to the distribution system. When these charges drop, customers see the difference in their monthly bills.

This drop, along with lower generation costs, was the main reason for the May 2026 rate decrease.

What This Means for Negros Power Consumers

For Negros Power customers, the lower May rate means electricity bills should be easier to manage, especially for families who use more power.

Actual savings will depend on how much electricity each household uses. Families who use more appliances or more kilowatt hours will see bigger savings than those with lower usage.

Still, this decrease is good news for people who have been facing higher prices for basic goods, fuel, and other household needs.

This is also a good reminder for families to keep practicing energy-saving habits. Turning off unused appliances, using natural ventilation, cleaning fan and air conditioner filters, and choosing energy-efficient appliances can help keep power bills in check.

Negros Power Continues to Balance Affordability and Reliability

Negros Power says its goal is to keep electricity affordable while making sure service stays reliable. This balance matters because people want lower bills, but also need steady power for their homes, businesses, schools, and daily life.

Electricity rates can change each month because many charges depend on market prices, generation costs, transmission fees, and other factors that the utility cannot control.

In May 2026, these changes benefited consumers, as lower generation and transmission charges lowered the average residential rate.

A Welcome Relief for Households This May

The drop in Negros Power rates this May is good news for many people in Negros Occidental. With the average residential rate now at P11.3808 per kilowatt-hour, households can expect some relief on their bills.

The decrease was mostly due to lower WESM charges, reduced generation costs, lower transmission charges, and the temporary suspension of the GEA ALL charge.

For customers, this is a good reminder that electricity rates depend on many factors. When major charges go down, households see the benefit in lower monthly bills.

As May bills arrive, many Negros Power customers will likely welcome this rate cut, especially during a period when electricity use usually rises.

The post Negros Power Cuts Residential Rates This May appeared first on Bacolod Lifestyle and Travel Guide.

Negros Power brought electricity to Sitio Hibong in Barangay Don Jorge L. Araneta, Bago City on May 16, 2026. This marks the 57th sitio to receive power through the company’s Sitio Electrification Program.

For the 30 households in Sitio Hibong, getting electricity means more than just having lights. It brings comfort, progress, and new opportunities for families who have waited years for reliable power.

Sitio Electrification Program Continues to Expand

Negros Power is committed to bringing electricity to rural areas in Central Negros. Through the Sitio Electrification Program, the company has energized 57 sitios so far.

So far, the program has helped 2,703 out of 3,338 households identified for electrification. The projects now reach areas like Bacolod City, Silay City, Talisay City, Bago City, Murcia, and Don Salvador Benedicto.

These electrification projects are improving life in communities that once struggled to access electricity.

Bringing Light and Opportunities to Remote Communities

Electricity makes a big difference in daily life, especially for families in remote areas. Residents of Sitio Hibong shared their gratitude after finally getting power at home.

Now that electricity is available, students can study at night, families can communicate more easily, and small businesses can run better. Electricity also opens up new ways for families to earn income.

For many residents, this is a sign of long-awaited progress. Tasks like charging phones, keeping food fresh, or using basic appliances are now part of daily life.

This project shows how better infrastructure can make communities safer and more comfortable.

Massive Investment for Rural Electrification

Negros Power has invested ₱52.38 million in the Sitio Electrification Program. This shows the company’s commitment to bringing reliable electricity to more remote areas in Central Negros.

To support more communities with electricity, Negros Power has already installed:

• 803 utility poles
• 66 energized distribution transformers
• Around 66.9 kilometers of conductors

These projects now have a total transformer capacity of 2,383 kVA and a projected demand of 927 kW.

These developments highlight how much the company is doing to bring safe and reliable power to underserved communities.

Negros Power Highlights the Importance of Rural Electrification

Engr. Leomel H. Tambanillo, Assistant Vice President for Planning, Business Operations, and Sitio Electrification Program and spokesperson for Negros Power, said that every sitio with electricity brings hope and development to local communities.

Tambanillo explained that the program is about more than just electricity. It also creates new chances for education, jobs, communication, and better living conditions for Negrenses.

His statement shows how electrification projects can make a big difference, especially in rural areas where better access to basic services can improve daily life.

A Step Closer to Inclusive Progress

Bringing electricity to Sitio Hibong is another big step for Negros Power as it works to expand access across its service area.

Programs like the Sitio Electrification Program help close the gap between urban and rural areas by making sure more families can enjoy modern utilities and better living conditions.

As more sitios get electricity, communities across Negros Occidental can expect better opportunities, stronger local economies, and a higher quality of life.

With Sitio Hibong now connected, Negros Power is one step closer to its goal of providing safe, reliable, and accessible electricity to more families in Central Negros.

The post Negros Power Energizes 57th Sitio in Bago City appeared first on Bacolod Lifestyle and Travel Guide.

“The enduring success of SM MOA Arena shows the strong demand for world-class entertainment venues, so we are bringing the same proven model to Cebu,” said Jeffrey C. Lim, President of SM Prime. “We believe Cebu is a key growth center, and this arena will help attract major events, support tourism and create more economic activity for the region.”

With seven storeys and a capacity of up to 25,000 people, SM Seaside Cebu Arena will be one of the largest indoor arenas in the Philippines.

Its flexible event bowl allows seamless configuration for both large-scale concerts and more intimate events, giving promoters greater versatility in staging productions.

The SM Seaside Cebu Arena will feature one of the most advanced center-hung displays in the country, supported by immersive LED ribbon boards that deliver a 360-degree viewing experience. These are complemented by high-capacity digital infrastructure, including 5G connectivity, enabling real-time engagement and enhanced production capabilities for both organizers and audiences.

Dedicated premium suites are integrated into the design to cater to corporate partners and elevate the overall hospitality offering.

SM Seaside Cebu Arena was also designed to support both front-of-house and back-of-house requirements for major productions. A practice court is available for performers, while multi-functional event spaces can be used as holding areas, breakout rooms or venues for smaller private events.

Located within the SM Seaside Complex, the arena benefits from direct access to retail, hospitality and transport infrastructure, creating a seamless ecosystem for visitors and event organizers. 

Its proximity to the Mactan-Cebu International Airport and surrounding lifestyle developments strengthens its appeal as a regional destination for international acts and large gatherings.

SM Seaside Cebu Arena has been securing advance bookings since late last year, with BINI on July 11, IV of Spades on July 18, TJ Monterde and KZ Tandingan on September 5 and LANY on November 6 and 12 already confirmed for this year.

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Electricity demand is rising across the Visayas as industries grow and communities modernize. At the 35th Visayas Area Business Conference (VABC), Negros Power and other leaders focused on making reliable, sustainable power a regional priority.

The conference, themed “Future Forward: Shaping Sustainable and Resilient Communities and Smarter Business,” brought together multiple sectors to discuss how infrastructure, innovation, and smart energy solutions can drive economic growth.

Negros Power Joins Key Discussions on Energy Security

By participating in the 35th VABC, Negros Power reinforced its role as a key advocate for reliable energy. The company engaged with industry leaders to advance solutions that ensure resilient communities.

A key moment at the conference was the presentation “Powering Growth: Energy as the Engine of Visayas Trade & Investment.” In this talk, Primelectric Holdings Inc. President and CEO Roel Z. Castro highlighted the urgent need for reliable energy solutions as the Visayas grow rapidly.

Castro explained that power demand in the region will rise sharply over the next few years, driven by industrialization, new investments, and ongoing development in Negros, Panay, Cebu, Leyte, and Bohol.

As more businesses open and communities become more active, the sector faces growing pressure to keep up.

Rising Power Demand in the Visayas

The Visayas is one of the country’s most economically active regions. Growth in tourism, real estate, business process outsourcing, manufacturing, and commercial activity is driving electricity use higher.

Castro said renewable energy is a key future goal, but it may not be enough on its own to meet the region’s growing energy needs. He stated that dependable baseload power—continuous electricity from sources such as coal, gas, or hydro—is still necessary to keep the system stable and prevent disruptions, especially during peak times.

This balanced approach helps businesses run smoothly and protects consumers from shortages or unstable electricity.

Challenges Facing the Visayas Power Grid

The conference also addressed major challenges for the Visayas power grid: limited interconnection capacity (the amount of electricity that can be transferred between islands via transmission lines), supply imbalances, and rising global fuel costs.

Negros, despite strong renewable capabilities, still depends on inter-island transmission and imports electricity during peak hours to support demand.

Castro warned that the current supply gap in the region is a real problem, not just a theory. He pointed to recurring yellow alerts—which are warnings issued by the power grid operator when reserves fall below ideal levels, signaling potential shortages but not yet causing outages—in the Visayas grid as evidence that more investment in reliable energy infrastructure is needed.

These alerts signal low power supply and unsafe reserve levels. While not full outages, yellow alerts show the energy system is under stress and at risk for disruption.

Balancing Sustainability and Reliability

One of the strongest messages delivered during the conference was the importance of balancing renewable energy goals with practical transition strategies.

Solar, wind, and hydro power are important for a cleaner future. However, energy experts said the shift to green power must also consider reliability, affordability, and the limits of the current power grid.

Negros Power and Primelectric Holdings’ vision centers on creating a robust, stable energy environment essential for economic growth and sustainability in the Visayas.

This balanced approach is especially important as the Visayas attracts more investors and large developments needing reliable electricity.

Negros Power Continues Modernization Efforts

Negros Power reaffirmed its commitment to providing reliable service through continuous modernization projects and long-term sustainability initiatives.

The company is upgrading power infrastructure to strengthen the grid, improve reliability, and support the needs of consumers and businesses in Negros Occidental.

Participating in the 35th VABC demonstrates the company’s commitment to leading efforts to ensure reliable electricity service and to supporting the region’s progress.

By participating in energy security and sustainable development discussions, Negros Power helps build a smarter, more resilient Visayas.

Building a Stronger Future for the Visayas

As the Visayas modernizes and attracts investment, reliable energy remains vital to its progress.

Talks at the 35th VABC showed that energy providers, government, businesses, and communities must work together. Building a sustainable future requires practical solutions, ongoing investment, and a shared commitment to long-term growth.

For Negros Power, joining these pivotal discussions is core to its mission of ensuring reliable energy for communities and driving regional economic growth.

As power demand rises and new energy challenges appear, reliable and sustainable electricity solutions are more important than ever for the Visayas’ future.

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The fiesta celebration in Hda. Imbang Mesa, Brgy. Bagtic in Silay City became even more meaningful this year, as Negros Electric Power Corporation fulfilled its promise to the community after residents successfully completed one full year without any household disconnections.

For 120 families in the sitio, the celebration was more than tradition. It marked a year of unity and discipline as residents worked together to maintain good standing with their electricity service.

A Promise Fulfilled by Negros Power

On May 8, Hda. Imbang Mesa residents celebrated their annual fiesta with gratitude after Negros Power awarded the community a cash prize, fulfilling its promise under the Sitio Electrification Program.

The program was introduced to help remote communities gain access to reliable electricity. For Hda. Imbang Mesa, the electrification project, brought major improvements to daily life after years of limited access to stable power service.

As part of the initiative launched last year, Negros Power challenged the community to avoid disconnections for an entire year. In return, the company promised to give a special reward during the community fiesta celebration.

Negros Power delivered the cash incentive, which residents used to fund fiesta activities, adding excitement and strengthening community bonds.

Community Cooperation Leads to Success

According to Engr. Leomel H. Tambanillo, Assistant Vice President for Planning, Business Operations, and Sitio Electrification Program, the achievement of Hda. Imbang Mesa reflects the strong cooperation among residents.

He shared that the community proved how teamwork and discipline can create positive results for everyone.

Tambanillo explained that Negros Power was happy to witness how the residents valued the opportunity given to them. He added that their one-year achievement without disconnections showed how communities can benefit when consumers cooperate and become responsible in managing their electricity obligations.

The company also emphasized that its mission goes beyond providing electricity connections. Negros Power continues to encourage responsible electricity consumption while building stronger partnerships with consumers across its service areas.

Tambanillo further noted that the cash prize symbolizes the company’s appreciation for the trust and commitment shown by the residents of Imbang Mesa. He expressed hope that the community’s success story would inspire other sitios to work together and maintain responsible electricity use.

Residents Express Gratitude

The residents of Hda. Imbang Mesa expressed heartfelt gratitude to Negros Power for honoring its promise and continuously supporting the development of their community.

Joshua Arsenal said the community was thankful for the assistance, which helped their fiesta and symbolized cooperation among sitio families.

His statement reflected the strong sense of unity that developed within the community throughout the year. Residents worked together not only to maintain their electricity service but also to improve their overall quality of life.

Sitio Electrification Program Brings Progress

The electrification project in Hda. Imbang Mesa benefited around 120 households through the installation of 32 poles, nearly 3 kilometers of wire, and 2 distribution transformers under the Negros Power Sitio Electrification Program.

The project provided residents with safer, more reliable access to electricity, helping families enjoy better living conditions and improved opportunities for education, livelihoods, and communication.

For many communities in remote areas, access to electricity represents more than convenience. It opens opportunities for progress and development while improving residents’ everyday lives.

Negros Power continues to expand its electrification initiatives in underserved communities across Negros Occidental. Through programs like this, the company aims to strengthen community partnerships while promoting responsible energy use.

A Fiesta Celebration Filled With Hope and Progress

This year’s fiesta celebration in Hda. Imbang Mesa became more memorable because it celebrated more than just tradition. It also honored a year of cooperation, progress, trust, and reliable electricity service.

The community’s success story shows how strong partnerships between power providers and consumers can create lasting, positive change. With discipline and teamwork, residents achieved a common goal that benefited the entire community.

As Negros Power continues its electrification efforts across the province, stories like Hda. Imbang Mesa serves as an inspiring example of how unity and responsible electricity use can help communities grow and thrive.

The post Hda. Imbang Mesa Residents Receive Reward From Negros Power appeared first on Bacolod Lifestyle and Travel Guide.

Reliable electricity relies not just on infrastructure but on strict adherence to industry rules. Recently, the Department of Energy (DOE) recognized two leading Visayas power distributors for outstanding compliance.

On April 24, 2026, the DOE honored MORE Electric and Power Corporation (MORE Power) and Negros Electric and Power Corporation (Negros Power) for timely report submissions. This recognition affirms their dedication to transparency, accountability, and high standards in the Philippine power sector.

Why the DOE Recognition Matters

The DOE awarded plaques of appreciation to both utilities for complying with the DOE Department Circular No. DC2023 03 0005. This circular outlines supplemental policies that guide the proper management of reportorial requirements in the electric power industry.

Though technical, these reports are essential. Accurate reporting lets the government track electricity supply, assess grid performance, and detect issues early. It also provides policymakers with data to make informed energy decisions.

DOE Undersecretary Rowena Cristina Guevarra signed and presented the plaques at the Energy Center in Bonifacio Global City, Taguig. This recognition highlights that efficient utilities rely on teams working both in the field and behind the scenes.

MORE Power and Negros Power Lead by Example

MORE Power supplies electricity to Iloilo City and nearby areas. Negros Power is the main distributor in Central Negros. Both companies are known for upgrading infrastructure and meeting national standards.

By submitting complete reports promptly, these utilities help the DOE gather key data for long-term national energy planning. This improves grid stability, reduces outages, and supports growing demand in the region.

As industries and homes connect to the electricity grid, accurate information becomes vital. Rule compliance enables quicker agency response and reliable power for all.

Supporting the Future of the Philippine Energy Sector

The recognition comes at an important time for the country. The Philippines is pushing toward full household electrification by 2028. At the same time, the energy sector is facing new challenges, including climate-related disruptions, the integration of renewable energy, and increased demand driven by economic growth.

According to Roel Z. Castro, President and Chief Executive Officer of both MORE Power and Negros Power, compliance is more than just submitting documents.

He explained that full compliance provides the DOE with valuable insights that can help accelerate projects involving grid modernization and renewable energy expansion. He also emphasized that timely reporting can help reduce delays in approvals and support the country’s electrification goals.

This means that simple administrative discipline can create a ripple effect that benefits entire communities.

Why Consumers Should Care

For many, energy compliance might seem to matter only to government offices and utility companies. But consumers also benefit when utilities take reporting seriously.

Proper reporting can help:

• Improve monitoring of the power grid.
• Reduce the risk of unexpected outages.
• Support faster infrastructure improvements.
• Strengthen disaster preparedness
• Encourage better customer service.

When utilities and regulators work together, homes and businesses usually get more reliable electric service.

A Positive Step for the Visayas

Recognizing MORE Power and Negros Power shows that following the rules can go hand in hand with innovation and better service. It also proves that utility companies in the Visayas are helping shape the country’s changing energy sector.

As the Philippines modernizes its power sector, companies like MORE Power and Negros Power can set an example for other utilities across the country.

Their commitment to transparency today could help build a stronger and more reliable energy future for everyone.

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