AFTER DECADES OF DARKNESS: Negros Power Brings Electricity to Remote Bago Sitio

By Dolly Yasa

BAGO CITY – For decades, residents of Purok Sunflower in Barangay Binubuhan lived without electricity, relying only on kerosene lamps for light.

The dream of having power remained distant—until now.

On Monday, a wave of joy swept through the community as Negros Power brought electricity to nearly 90 homes through its Sitio Electrification Program.

The project, which features the longest power line built under Negros Power’s electrification initiative, includes 36 spans, 60 newly installed electric poles, and three transformers.

For Amelita Boltes, 71, having electricity in her home was a long-awaited blessing.

“Mabudlay gid mag-gawi kung wala suga,” she said, her voice filled with emotion. (“It is really difficult to live without electricity.”)

“Tigulang na ako, 71 anyos na, pero wala gid ko kaagi nga may kuryente sa balay. Gani subong, nalipay gid ako kay indi na delikado sa akon, kapin na gid kun gab-i,” she added. (“I am already old, 71 years old, yet I have never experienced having electricity at home. Now, I am very happy because it is no longer dangerous for me, especially at night.”)

Purok President Jobert Quatero echoed the community’s gratitude.

“Iban di sa amon nagtaliwan nalang nga wala nagana sa ila panimalay. Dugay na ni namon nga handom nga magkakuryente, gani dako gid ang amon pasalamat sa Negros Power nga sa madugay nga panahon, may kasanag na sa amon Purok,” he said. (“Some of us have passed away without ever experiencing electricity in their homes. We have long dreamed of having power, so we are very grateful to Negros Power that after such a long time, our purok finally has light.”)

The project is part of Negros Power’s commitment to electrifying all areas within its franchise over the next three years.

Negros Power President and CEO Roel Z. Castro reaffirmed the company’s dedication to rural electrification.

“We want everyone, every sitio, to have electricity,” he said.

“If the city has electricity, the sitios should have it, too. We are committed to this mission, and we will do it. We are here to help, and we will deliver on our promises.”

The ceremonial switch-on marked a turning point for Purok Sunflower, symbolizing progress, hope, and a brighter future.

Negros Power’s dedication to rural electrification has not only illuminated homes but has also ignited optimism and pride among the people it serves.

The event was attended by key officials from Negros Power, alongside Bago City and Barangay Binubuhan leaders, all celebrating the milestone.

Bago City Mayor Nicholas Yulo expressed gratitude for Negros Power’s prioritization of rural electrification.

“We voted for this new franchisee because we knew they would bring the funds and the capital for rural electrification,” Yulo said.

“We are grateful to be prioritized by Negros Power, and we are confident that within a few years, 100% of Bago City will be energized.”

His sentiments were echoed by Vice Mayor Ramon Torres.

“They have long wanted to provide quality power service to our city,” Torres said.

“You should be proud because you are the first in Bago City to benefit from this program. After you, they will also bring light to the sitios in other areas.”

The project serves as a beacon of hope, demonstrating the impact of collaboration and the transformative power of electricity for more remote communities in Central Negros that have long been in the dark.