NEPC Brings Power Awareness Closer to Bacolod City Vendors
Electricity is essential for daily life, especially for small business owners and market vendors who depend on it to keep their businesses running. They use electricity to light their stalls and operate equipment. That’s why the recent Information, Education, and Communication activity by Negros Electric Power Corporation was so timely and meaningful for Bacolod City vendors.
NEPC recently brought together members of the Federation of Bacolod City Vendors Association for a session about electricity awareness, consumer rights, and shared responsibilities. Thirty vendor officers and officials from seventeen associations attended. Instead of a lecture, the event was a conversation designed to give vendors useful knowledge.

Why This IEC Activity Matters to Vendors
Many vendors find electricity rules and policies confusing or overwhelming. Bills come in, regulations change, and problems like illegal connections or power interruptions can disrupt their work. This IEC activity gave them a chance to have these concerns explained clearly and in a way they could relate to.
The goal was straightforward but important. NEPC aimed to help consumers become more aware and get involved in electricity issues. When vendors understand how electricity services work, they can make better choices, avoid problems, and have a better relationship with their power provider.
Understanding NEPC Programs and Consumer Support
Maricel Pe, Assistant Vice President for Customer Care and Marketing, was one of the main speakers. She explained the different consumer programs NEPC offers. These programs help customers, solve concerns more quickly, and improve service overall.
NEPC showed that it wants to be a partner vendors can talk to, not a distant company. This discussion helped vendors learn where to go, who to contact, and what options they have when they face electricity issues.
A Look at NEPC Achievements and Service Improvements
Engr. Leomel Bong Tambanillo shared what NEPC has achieved in the past sixteen months. He talked about better service delivery and ongoing work to make power more reliable and efficient. For vendors who rely on steady electricity, these updates helped them feel more confident about NEPC’s direction.
Hearing about progress behind the scenes reassures consumers that their electricity provider is working to better serve them.

Learning the Law and Protecting the Community
Engr. Edwin M. Montemayor also discussed Republic Act No. 7832. This law addresses electricity pilferage and reducing system losses. While these topics may seem technical, they affect everyone. Illegal connections and power theft can cause higher costs and less stable service.
By explaining the law clearly, the session helped vendors see why using electricity responsibly matters for both NEPC and the whole community.
Knowing Your Rights as an Electricity Consumer
Atty. Ely Niño Azuelo, Junior Legal Officer of Negros Power, spoke about the Magna Carta for Electricity Consumers. He explained both consumers’ rights and responsibilities. Vendors learned what they are entitled to and what is expected from them.
This balance matters. When consumers know their rights, they feel more confident. When they understand their responsibilities, it’s easier to work together effectively.
Vendors Speak Up and Share Their Experience
Participants said the IEC activity, held on January 30, 2026, was informative and timely. Many valued the opportunity to ask questions and address concerns that affect their daily work.
Beboy Vaflor Cañada said the activity helped vendors better understand their role as electricity consumers. He stressed that being informed helps vendors work well with NEPC and use electricity responsibly.

Lucelyn De La Paz also thanked NEPC, noting that the initiative strengthened the partnership between NEPC and vendors. She said activities like this give vendors confidence that their voices matter and their concerns are heard.
Strengthening Community Ties Through Education
Overall, the IEC activity was a good opportunity for dialogue and understanding. It was more than just sharing information—it was a step toward better cooperation between NEPC and Bacolod City vendors.
This initiative shows NEPC’s ongoing commitment to consumer education, community partnership, and service excellence through its IKAW ANG UNA advocacy. By sharing knowledge with the community, NEPC proves that informed consumers are empowered consumers.
For vendors and everyday electricity users alike, this kind of engagement shows that learning together can lead to better service, greater understanding, and a brighter future for everyone.
