Sen. Grace Poe Pushes for Franchises to Power Distribution Utilities
Senator Grace Poe has recently called for the grant of franchises to three power distribution utilities in the provinces of Leyte, Romblon, and Negros Occidental. The senator emphasized the importance of ensuring continued access to affordable, reliable, and sustainable energy, especially as the heat index in the country remains dangerously high.
As the chairman of the Senate Committee on Public Services, which handles bills granting franchises, Senator Poe highlighted the projected rise in the heat index during the peak of the summer season and amid the El Niño phenomenon. In light of these circumstances, she believes that now is the perfect time to present three measures to the Senate that will secure uninterrupted power supply for consumers.
Addressing the Energy Needs of Leyte II Electric Cooperative (LEYECO II)
One of the franchise applications sponsored by Senator Poe is for Leyte II Electric Cooperative (LEYECO II). The franchise, outlined in House Bill 6295, aims to ensure the continued provision of power service to the residents of Tacloban City, Babatngon, and Palo in Leyte.
Senator Poe emphasized that LEYECO II has consistently ranked as the top-performing electric cooperative in the country, based on the National Electrification Administration’s (NEA) overall performance assessment since 2015. This demonstrates the cooperative’s commitment to fulfilling its obligation as a public service provider.
Granting Franchise to Romblon Electric Cooperative (ROMELCO)
Another franchise bill sponsored by Senator Poe is for Romblon Electric Cooperative (ROMELCO). The grant of franchise to ROMELCO aims to ensure the continued provision of power service to the residents of Romblon province.
While specific details regarding ROMELCO’s performance assessment were not mentioned, it can be inferred that the cooperative has met the necessary requirements to be considered for a franchise. Senator Poe’s support for ROMELCO’s franchise application underscores the importance of reliable power supply in Romblon.
Ensuring Power Access for Negros Electric and Power Corporation (NEPC)
The third franchise bill sponsored by Senator Poe is for Negros Electric and Power Corporation (NEPC). The grant of franchise to NEPC aims to ensure the continued provision of power service to the residents of Negros Occidental.
While Senator Poe did not provide specific information about NEPC’s performance assessment, her sponsorship of the franchise bill indicates her confidence in the corporation’s ability to fulfill its role as a public service provider. This move highlights the senator’s commitment to addressing the energy needs of Negros Occidental.
Conclusion
Senator Grace Poe’s push for the grant of franchises to power distribution utilities in Leyte, Romblon, and Negros Occidental reflects her dedication to ensuring continued access to affordable, reliable, and sustainable energy. By sponsoring these franchise bills, Senator Poe aims to address the increasing demand for power services and secure uninterrupted power supply for consumers.
The senator’s emphasis on the heat index and the projected rise in temperatures during the summer season and amid the El Niño phenomenon underscores the urgency of her proposed measures. Furthermore, her recognition of the top performance of LEYECO II and her support for ROMELCO and NEPC’s franchise applications demonstrate her commitment to promoting efficient and reliable power distribution.
Through these initiatives, Senator Poe not only addresses the energy needs of specific provinces but also contributes to the overall stability and resilience of the country’s power sector. Her efforts reflect her understanding of the importance of affordable and sustainable energy in driving economic growth and improving the quality of life for all Filipinos.
Source: The Manila Times
