LIGHT SHINES IN THE DARKNESS: Negros Power Brings Electricity to Underserved Communities Before Year’s End

As 2024 neared its close, three remote communities in Negros experienced a transformative moment: the arrival of electricity, a long-awaited gift that brightened homes and rekindled hopes.

Negros Power, in a show of commitment and compassion, energized underserved areas, symbolizing not just a technical milestone but a beacon of progress for these communities.

On Dec. 17, cheers erupted in Sitio Bocboc, Barangay Concepcion, Talisay City, as 20 of 35 households were connected to the power grid. Residents, alongside Talisay LGU officials and Negros Power representatives, braved challenging weather to celebrate this milestone.

“We lived in darkness for so long,” said resident Gina Tulis, her voice filled with emotion. “We are so grateful to Negros Power. They came to our remote area and gave us electricity—lights, transformers, meters, and everything we need.”

The joy spread to Purok 8, Barangay Alangilan, Bacolod City, on Dec. 20, as 37 of 64 households were electrified. Bacolod LGU officials, barangay leaders, and Negros Power representatives marked the occasion with residents who had eagerly awaited this moment.

Reaching these areas was no easy feat. In Purok Citrus, Barangay Bunga, Municipality of Don Salvador Benedicto, Negros Power’s team navigated over a kilometer of rugged terrain to energize 47 households.

The residents’ smiles as they welcomed the team spoke volumes about the impact of this achievement.

“We are so happy! The whole community is overjoyed,” said Mayor Lawrence Marxlen Dela Cruz of Don Salvador Benedicto. “As mayor, I am grateful and proud of Negros Power for helping us achieve this long-held dream of electrification.”

Engr. Bernard Bailey Del Castillo, Negros Power’s Chief Operating Officer, expressed his fulfillment at seeing the happiness of the residents.

“Our goal was to bring light to these sitios before the year ends, and we achieved it,” he said. “More sitios will be energized over the next three years.”

Negros Power President and CEO Roel Castro reinforced the company’s dedication to providing electricity to all consumers, regardless of location or cost.

“We are committed to electrifying all residents in our franchise area, no matter how remote or challenging,” Castro said. “Every consumer deserves access to electricity, and we will work tirelessly to make it happen.”

He emphasized that these electrification projects represent more than technical achievements.

“They are a testament to the power of compassion and the transformative impact of bringing light to those living in darkness,” Castro said. “The joy and gratitude of these residents remind us that success lies not just in the numbers but in the lives we touch.”

“These initial three Sitio Electrification Projects are more than just technical achievements; they are a testament to the power of compassion and the transformative impact of bringing light into the lives of those living in darkness,” he added.

“The joy, gratitude, and hope that illuminated the faces of the residents in these communities is a reminder to us that the true measure of success is not just in the numbers but in the lives that are touched.”