• CHRYSEE G. SAMILLANO
The former president of Central Negros Electric Cooperative (Ceneco) is asking the electric cooperative to hold a referendum for its member-consumers to take part in a major decision that will involve a proposed joint venture agreement (JVA) that Ceneco will enter into with Ignite Power and Energy Holdings, Inc. (MORE Power).
Roy Cordova yesterday said the JVA between MORE Power and Ceneco is one of the best options for the electric distribution utility to meet the present demand and challenges brought about by provisions of the electric power industry mandate, especially to the electric cooperatives (ECs) in the country.
Cordova said Ceneco was incorporated and given the franchise 48 years ago and in a few years this will face uncertainty because Section 27 of Republic Act 9136 which provides that the franchise renewal of EC is vested with Congress. With its partnership with MORE Power, Ceneco will become a robust distribution utility and be capable of providing satisfactory service to the franchise or coverage area of Ceneco. Hence, Ceneco will exist for another 50 years or more because it will be able to meet the requirements for the grant of Congressional franchise.
Moreover, the JVA is anchored on R.A. 9136 (EPIRA Law) particularly on the provisions that “the policy of the State shall ensure the quality, reliability, security, and affordability of the supply of electric power, shall enhance the inflow of private capital, and broaden the ownership base of power generation, transmission, and supply of electric power; shall enhance the inflow of private distribution sectors, and ensure fair and non-discriminatory treatment of public and private sector entities in the process of restructuring the electric power industry,” he said.
The JVA, coupled with the registration of Ceneco with the Cooperative Development Authority (CDA) as provided in R.A. 10531 in order for it to become a genuine cooperative, will help member-consumers become the real owners of Ceneco and have shares in the joint venture company, Cordova said.
He will be submitting to the Ceneco general manager and members of the Board of Directors a copy of his statement, he said.
Cordova said he believes that the time has come for member-consumers of Ceneco to have a more efficient, reliable, and sustainable distribution utility that will serve the electric power needs of the Cities of Bacolod, Silay, Talisay, Bago, and the Municipalities of Murcia and Salvador Benedicto.*
