Negros Power Brings Electricity to Underserved Communities: A New Dawn for Remote Areas
As 2024 comes to an end, three communities in Negros are experiencing something truly special: a brand-new dawn, quite literally. Thanks to the hard work and dedication of Negros Power, these areas are finally getting the one thing that’s been missing for far too long: electricity. Let’s dive into the heartwarming story of how light makes a big difference for these communities.
The Long Wait for Light
For the residents of Sitio Bocboc in Barangay Concepcion, Talisay City, the excitement of having electricity after so many years of living in darkness was palpable. On December 17th, 2024, the switch was flipped, and 20 out of 35 households were connected to the power grid.
The day was special, not just because of the new power lines but because it symbolized hope for a brighter future. Even with the rain pouring down, the joy was undeniable. Local officials and Negros Power representatives joined the community to celebrate this milestone.
Gina Tulis, a resident, couldn’t hold back her emotions. “We lived in such darkness for so long,” she said, her voice shaking with gratitude. “Now, we have lights, transformers, meters, and everything we need. We’re so grateful to Negros Power for making this happen.”
Lighting Up Bacolod City
A few days later, on December 20th, another celebration occurred in Purok 8, Barangay Alangilan, Bacolod City. This time, 37 households out of 64 were connected to the grid. The mood was electric, with Bacolod LGU officials, barangay leaders, and Negros Power staff all in attendance.
Bringing electricity to remote areas isn’t always easy, though. The journey was even more challenging in Purok Citrus, Barangay Bunga, and Don Salvador Benedicto. The team had to trek over a kilometer of rugged terrain to reach the 47 households anxiously awaiting power.
When they arrived, the smiles on the residents’ faces said it all. They had been waiting for this day for years, and it was finally here.
A Community’s Dream Come True
Mayor Lawrence Marxlen Dela Cruz of Don Salvador Benedicto expressed how much the arrival of electricity meant to his community. “We are so happy! The whole community is overjoyed,” he said. “As the mayor, I’m proud of Negros Power for helping us make this long-held dream a reality.”
Clearly, this wasn’t just about power lines and infrastructure—it was about the people and the transformation that electricity brings to their lives.
Behind the Scenes: Negros Power’s Commitment
The joy of these communities is a testament to the hard work of Negros Power, and its leaders aren’t shy about expressing their pride. Engr. Bernard Bailey Del Castillo, Chief Operating Officer of Negros Power, shared his excitement. “It’s so fulfilling to see our customers so happy. We set out to energize these communities before the year ended, and we’ve done it! And we’re not stopping here; more sitios will be electrified in the next few years.”
Roel Castro, President and CEO of Negros Power, also highlighted the company’s mission. “Our goal is to provide electricity to all residents in our franchise area, no matter how far or difficult it is to reach them. Every single consumer deserves access to electricity, and we’re committed to making that happen.”
More Than Just Power Lines
These projects aren’t just about technical achievements; they’re a powerful reminder of the difference compassion and commitment can make in people’s lives. As Castro put it, “The joy, gratitude, and hope that lit up the faces of the residents are what truly matter. That’s the real measure of success.”
Bringing light into these communities has opened up new opportunities for growth and development. For the residents of Sitio Bocboc, Purok 8, and Purok Citrus, their future is now brighter than ever, thanks to the tireless efforts of Negros Power.
What’s Next?
This is just the beginning. Over the next three years, Negros Power plans to continue its mission of electrifying more remote and underserved communities in the area. And with the success of these initial projects, it’s clear that the company is well on its way to achieving its goal of bringing light to every corner of Negros.
For now, though, the smiles and gratitude from these communities are enough to remind us all of how transformative something as simple as electricity can be.