A Brighter Future: How Negros Power Brought Light and Hope to Purok Sunflower
For years, the people of Purok Sunflower in Barangay Binubuhan, Bago City, lived in darkness. While most of the world enjoyed the convenience of electricity, these residents relied on flickering kerosene lamps to light their homes. Having access to power was a dream that felt impossible—until now.
Recently, a wave of excitement spread through this small community as Negros Power officially switched on the lights in nearly 90 homes. This event was more than just a technical achievement; it was a life-changing moment for the people who had waited decades for this day to come.
The Long Road to Electrification
Bringing electricity to Purok Sunflower was no easy feat. The project involved constructing the longest power line under Negros Power’s electrification program, covering 36 spans, installing 60 new electric poles, and setting up three transformers. The effort and resources dedicated to this initiative showed the company’s unwavering commitment to energizing even the most remote communities.
This development was a long-awaited blessing for Amelita Boltes, a 71-year-old resident. “It’s so difficult to go about daily life without light,” she shared, her voice filled with emotion. “I am already old, and I have never experienced having electricity in my home. I am so happy because I finally feel safe, especially at night.”
A Dream Finally Realized
Many residents of Purok Sunflower had given up hope that they would ever see their homes lit up by anything other than candles and lamps. Purok President Jobert Quatero reflected on the struggles of the past. “Some of our neighbors passed away without ever experiencing electricity in their homes. We’ve dreamed of this for so long, and now, thanks to Negros Power, our Purok finally has light.”
This electrification project is part of Negros Power’s larger vision to provide electricity to all sitios within its coverage area over the next three years. The company’s CEO and President, Roel Z. Castro, reaffirmed their dedication to this goal. “We want everyone, every sitio, to have electricity. If the city has power, the sitios should also have it. We are committed to this mission and will make it happen.”
More Than Just Electricity
The switch-on ceremony was more than a celebration of technology—it was a celebration of hope and progress. The presence of key officials from Negros Power, alongside local government leaders from Bago City and Barangay Binubuhan, highlighted the importance of this milestone.
Bago City Mayor Nicholas Yulo expressed his gratitude for Negros Power’s efforts. “We supported this new franchise because we knew they would bring the necessary funding and capital for rural electrification. We are thankful that they prioritized us, and we are confident that in a few years, Bago City will be fully energized.”
Vice Mayor Ramon Torres echoed this sentiment, addressing the residents with pride. “You should be proud because you are the first in Bago City to benefit from this program. After you, many more sitios will follow.”
A Beacon of Progress
With the arrival of electricity, the future of Purok Sunflower is looking brighter than ever. The residents can now enjoy safer homes, better education opportunities, and improved quality of life. Children will no longer struggle to do their homework under the dim light of a candle, and families can finally experience the convenience of electricity.
Negros Power’s dedication to bringing light to even the most remote areas proves that progress is possible when communities and organizations work together. As this electrification program continues, many more sitios across Central Negros will soon step out of the darkness and into a future filled with light and endless possibilities.