BACOLOD City Councilor Jude Thaddeus Sayson, chairperson of the City Council committee on appropriation and finance, is supporting the proposed joint venture agreement (JVA) of Central Negros Electric Cooperative (Ceneco) and MORE Electric Power and Power Corporation (MORE Power).
Sayson said Wednesday, March 1, that Bacolodnons want good power supply service, and it’s the mandate of Ceneco to deliver an efficient and sufficient power supply here.
" If they want to improve their services, we are open to this proposal for the benefit of the people of Bacolod," he said.
He added that the only problem with Ceneco is its lack of capitalization to improve its services.
The councilor stressed that he will support the JVA as long as the contract is advantageous for the residents.
"It’s advantageous (JVA) if you are looking for the capitalization. The JVA’s plan can address the old poles, the maintenance, and the capital outlay of Ceneco," Sayson said.
Sayson noted that MORE Power also delivering power services in Iloilo City, and its electricity rate is cheaper compared to Bacolod City.
Acting Ceneco general manager Arnel Lapore earlier said the proposal has already been forwarded to the National Electrification Administration (NEA).
Mayor Alfredo Abelardo Benitez also earlier expressed his support for the JVA of Ceneco with a private company on three conditions that would be beneficial for the people of Bacolod City.
"I have heard about the offers, and if they can lower the electricity rates, assure 24/7 power supply, and convert to renewable power, then they will have my support," Benitez said.
He said they will also observe the performance of MORE Power in Iloilo City, adding that it’s also better if MORE Power will present its proposal to the City Mayor’s Office.
Benitez disclosed that his office received several complaints against the services of Ceneco, especially during massive brownouts including the high electricity rates.*