DBM Allots PHP3.6B to Electrify Sitios, Expand Solar Access

The Department of Budget and Management has released PHP 3.627 billion to fund the country’s expanded rural electrification program for 2025.

The allocation supports the National Electrification Administration’s Strategized Rural Electrification and Operational Reliability program, which targets underserved sitios and barangays nationwide.

“We have released more than PHP 3.627 billion to cover the continuous implementation of NEA’s Rural Electrification Program,” DBM Secretary Amenah Pangandaman said.

“Of this amount, based on their report, NEA will be able to cover the energization of 1,752 sitios and five barangays under the 2025 subsidy,” she added.

The PHP 3.439 billion subsidy will fund the Sitio Electrification Program, bringing power to previously unenergized communities under the 2025 General Appropriations Act.

An additional PHP 68.839 million will rehabilitate five barangays through the Barangay Line Enhancement Program, replacing outdated off-grid solutions with more stable power lines.

Another PHP 120 million is earmarked for the procurement and deployment of 4,000 solar photovoltaic (PV) units to power isolated, off-grid communities.

“Malaking bagay po ’yan para sa ating mga kababayan na hirap maabot ng serbisyo na mapailawan ang kanilang mga kabahayan,” Pangandaman said.

“Kapag may kuryente, magiging epektibo ang pagkakaroon ng connectivity gaano man kalayo,” she added, stressing the link between electrification and digital access in far-flung schools.

This funding push aligns with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s directive to provide universal access to electricity and internet connectivity by 2028.

From 2017 to 2024, NEA has energized 9,645 sitios, leaving 9,622 targeted sitios still awaiting power over the next three years.

The initiative is expected to stimulate local economic activity, improve access to education and health services, and enhance the quality of life in marginalized communities.