NEPC To Grant Amnesty For Illegal Connections In Central Negros
The Negros Electric and Power Corporation (NEPC) is taking a significant step toward addressing the issue of illegal electricity connections in Central Negros by offering an amnesty program. This initiative is set to launch once NEPC begins its operations, anticipated to start around August 1, 2024.
Roel Z. Castro, Negros Power President and Chief Executive Officer
Understanding the Amnesty Program
The amnesty program is designed to encourage those with illegal connections to come forward and regularize their electricity usage without facing penalties or backbilling. This means that more than 6,000 individuals currently using electricity without proper legal connections can transition to a legitimate setup without fear of financial repercussions.
The Importance of Legal Connections
Roel Castro, President and CEO of NEPC, emphasized the company’s commitment to serving the community from the very beginning. He stated, “The drive is to make them legal and regular.” This move not only helps individuals avoid potential legal issues but also ensures a more stable and reliable power distribution network for everyone in the area.
Jonathan Cabrera, Negros Power Spokesman
How the Amnesty Program Works
The amnesty period will last for one month, starting from the day NEPC officially takes over the distribution services from Central Negros Electric Cooperative (CENECO). During this period, individuals with illegal connections can apply for legal connections at NEPC’s temporary office located on the 2nd floor of Robinsons East Mall, Burgos Avenue, Barangay Villamonte, Bacolod City.
Jonathan Cabrera, NEPC’s Media Relations Officer, explained the process: “We will encourage those using power without their own electric meter or just tapping from their neighbor or with a secondary line (jumper) to avail of the one-month amnesty. All they have to do is to come to the office and apply for amnesty.”
Ma. Cecilia Pe, Negros Power Assistant Vice President for Customer Care
Consequences of Not Availing the Amnesty
Castro and Cabrera both warned that those who fail to take advantage of the amnesty program within the allotted time will face strict enforcement actions. NEPC plans to go after illegal connections post-amnesty, with violators potentially facing significant legal consequences, including fines and imprisonment.
Preparing for a Seamless Transition
NEPC is fully prepared to manage this transition smoothly. With 30,000 new meters available, the company can accommodate a significant number of new legal connections. Furthermore, NEPC has already started joint rehabilitation work on CENECO’s distribution lines to ensure there are no long scheduled power outages during the takeover.
Engr. Mervin Dalian, NEPC AVP for Network Development & Operations
Looking Ahead
The franchise bill for NEPC is currently awaiting presidential approval, and once signed, the company will proceed with applying for a Certificate of Public Convenience and Necessity from the Energy Regulation Commission. This will enable NEPC to officially commence operations and begin delivering improved, reliable power services to consumers in Bacolod, Bago, Silay, Talisay, Murcia, and Don Salvador Benedicto.
As NEPC prepares to launch its operations, the amnesty program represents a pivotal effort to enhance the region’s power distribution system and ensure that all consumers have access to legal, reliable electricity connections. This initiative not only aligns with NEPC’s vision of “Service Beyond Power” but also underscores its commitment to the welfare and progress of the Central Negros community.
Engr. Christian John Villena, Power Supply Planning & Trading Division – Corporate Planning Department
Stay tuned for more updates as NEPC continues to work towards a brighter and more efficient power future for Central Negros.
