Powering Up Lives: Silay City and Negros Power Light the Way for Informal Settlers
If you’re from Silay City or have roots in Negros Occidental, this recent development might just brighten your day — literally and figuratively. Negros Power and Silay City just shook hands on something big, something life-changing. Over 5,000 informal settler households are about to say goodbye to illegal and dangerous power lines and hello to safe, legal electricity.
Yes, you read that right. Thousands of homes will soon have access to reliable and metered electricity, thanks to a new Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) signed last April 4, 2025. And it’s not just about plugging into a power source — this is about giving dignity, safety, and opportunity to many families who have long lived in the shadows of uncertainty.
A Bright Beginning: What the MOA Is All About
The MOA signing was no small event. Silay’s Mayor, Joedith C. Gallego, was there along with Councilor Mike Maravilla and other local leaders. Representing Negros Electric and Power Corporation was none other than President and CEO Roel Z. Castro, backed by his team of managers. The energy in the room (pun intended) was hopeful and focused.
So, what’s the deal? The agreement clears the way for informal settlers — people living on land they don’t own but are allowed to occupy — to get legal electricity. No more illegal taps, no more fire hazards, and no more being left in the dark when it comes to public services.
“This is more than just powering homes,” said Castro. “It’s about enabling dreams, improving safety, and unlocking economic and educational opportunities.”
Why This Matters to the Community
Let’s face it — electricity isn’t just about keeping the lights on. It powers kids’ study time, parents’ cooking routines, and even the local sari-sari stores that need refrigeration or lighting. For many informal settlers, not having legal access to power has meant constant risks — from faulty wiring to fires to the threat of being cut off without warning.
Mayor Gallego nailed it when he said this move is about building a secure and dignified future. Legal electrification isn’t a luxury. It’s a basic right. And it’s about time this right reached everyone.
Here’s How It’s Going to Work
Negros Power isn’t just handing out electricity left and right. A system is in place to ensure everything’s done the right way. First, they’ll identify who qualifies as informal settlers and submit the list to the city government. Then, those eligible residents need to provide the following:
- A valid government-issued ID
- A photo of themselves in front of their house
- A Barangay Certificate of Residency
- An Affidavit of Undertaking
- A Temporary Electrical Permit
- Proof of payment for a security deposit
Sounds like a lot? Don’t worry — the City Government of Silay is stepping up to help process all those documents quickly, within five working days. There’s even talk that the Mayor might issue an Executive Order to make the process smoother.
A Team Effort with Long-Term Benefits
This whole project isn’t just about one-time connections. The MOA includes regular inspections and follow-ups to make sure everything stays up to code and residents continue to meet the requirements.
Moreover, this move won’t remove any benefits informal settlers already enjoy under existing laws. It opens the door to more opportunities — especially when availing government programs requiring proof of residency and utility connections.
And let’s not forget that Silay City has had its fair share of power-related problems, especially in high-risk communities. Illegal connections have been a source of fire hazards and public safety concerns. This initiative aims to change that narrative once and for all.
Lighting the Path for Inclusive Growth
Silay is a third-class component city with sixteen barangays, each with its own unique charm and challenges. But with this move, one thing’s for sure — the city is serious about leveling the playing field and ensuring no one is left behind.
This partnership between Negros Power and the Silay City Government is more than just a utility upgrade. It’s a shared promise to build a safer, more inclusive, and empowered community. And with over 5,000 households poised to benefit, the impact will be felt far and wide.
So the next time you pass by a humble home now glowing with its first legal light bulb, know that something beautiful just happened — progress, partnership, and people coming together to make life better.
That’s how you spark real change and light the way for a better tomorrow.