• GILBERT P. BAYORAN
Negros Power is taking a proactive approach to community engagement with the recent launching of its new “PaKAPe Program,” aimed at fostering open dialogue and collaboration with barangay officials and residents in Bacolod City.
In a statement, Negros Power said its the “PaKAPe Program” serves as a platform for discussing plans and programs related to community concerns, with a focus on strengthening cooperation and building positive relationships between barangays and Negros Power.
“We believe that open communication is key to addressing the needs of our communities,” said Engr. Bailey del Castillo, Chief Operations Officer of Negros Power. “Through the Pakape Program, we can work together to ensure a reliable and safe electricity service for all.”
One key component of the Pakape Program is the “BReaD” (Barangay Reassessment Drive) program, which local authorities and Negros Power can gather vital data on the electrical demand across Barangays, identify areas that require upgrades or maintenance, and ensure that safety standards are met for residents, according to del Castillo.
This initiative plays a crucial role in improving the safety and sustainability of electrical systems in communities.
“This data will be invaluable in identifying areas that need upgrades or maintenance,” explained del Castillo. “It will also support the annual budgeting process by determining the budget required for both electricity usage and the electric service connection applications for all unmetered barangay facilities.”
Recognizing the importance of skilled personnel at the barangay level, Negros Power also launched the “BELT” (Barangay Electrician Livelihood Training) program in collaboration with the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA).
This program provides essential knowledge and skills training to barangay personnel and electricians, equipping them to prevent electrical accidents and promote safety with electricity.
“This program is crucial for ensuring the safety of our constituents,” said Barangay Captain of Brgy. Taculing Lady Gles Pallen, who participated in the BELT program. “With the knowledge and skills gained through this training, we can better address electrical issues in our barangay and prevent accidents.”
The initiative will also help to streamline new electrical applications to Negros Power thru the assistance of competent barangay electricians.
In collaboration with the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP), Negros Power has also implemented a “Red Zones” initiative.
This program focuses on 284 fire-prone sitios within 48 barangays in Bacolod City, providing information, education, and communication (IEC) campaigns to raise awareness about electrical hazards and promote safety practices.
“This initiative is vital for protecting our communities from electrical fires,” stated FSupt. Jenny Mae Maisip, a representative from the BFP. “By working together, we can educate residents about electrical safety and reduce the risk of fire incidents.”
The program, according to Negros Power, will profoundly enhance community safety, reduce fire-related incidents, foster compliance with electrical service regulations, and convert unmetered households.*
