Today, we proudly join the nation in celebrating National Line Workers Appreciation Day, a day dedicated to honoring the fearless and devoted “Warriors of Light.” Alongside the National Electrification Administration (NEA) and the Philippine Rural Electric Cooperatives Association (PHILRECA), we pay tribute to the brave men and women who risk their lives daily to ensure that our communities are illuminated and connected.
These courageous individuals work tirelessly in the face of peril, often in harsh weather and challenging conditions, to maintain and restore power. Their unwavering commitment ensures that our homes, schools, hospitals, and businesses have the electricity they need to operate smoothly. They are the unseen heroes who keep the lights on, and without them, our daily lives would be shrouded in darkness.
On this special day, and every day, we extend our deepest gratitude to our linemen. Their dedication, hard work, and sacrifices do not go unnoticed. We thank them for their incredible service and for their steadfast resolve in the face of danger.
To all the line workers, we salute you and honor your vital role in our communities. Thank you for being the backbone of our electrical infrastructure and for lighting up our lives.
In a significant move to improve its operational efficiency, the Isabela I Electric Cooperative, Inc. (ISELCO-1) conducted a comprehensive benchmarking visit at the Misamis Oriental -1 Rural Electric Service Cooperative, Inc. (MORESCO-1) on August 1, 2024.
The visit featured detailed presentations from various MORESCO-1 departments, beginning with the Finance Services Department, led by Chief Accountant Haydee Juario, from 9:30 to 10:30 AM. This was followed by presentations from the Engineering Services Department, headed by Systems Operations Chief Engr. Ronie Saldia, and the Institutional Services Department, led by MCD Chief Rio Vallejio, both from 10:30 to 11:30 AM. The Corporate Planning Department, represented by CS Section Head Resalie Fernandez, concluded the presentations from 11:30 AM to 12:30 PM.
The afternoon session included a tour of the cooperative’s facilities and a collaborative discussion where both parties exchanged valuable insights. The visit provided ISELCO-1 with practical knowledge and strategies that are expected to enhance their service delivery to member-consumer-owners.
This initiative underscores ISELCO-1’s dedication to adopting industry best practices and continually improving its services.
Manticao celebrated a landmark event last Wednesday, July 31, 2024, as the National Electrification Administration (NEA) and Misamis Oriental-1 Rural Electric Service Cooperative, Inc (MORESCO-1) held the Energization Ceremony of the Sitio Electrification Program (SEP). This program, aimed at promoting economic development and reducing poverty, is dedicated to achieving 100% sitio electrification across the Philippines.
This third phase in a series of seven to eight energization projects under the SEP has successfully brought electricity to Puroks 1 and 3 in Barangay Balintad. The electrification of these areas represents a significant advancement in enhancing the quality of life for the residents.
SEP is a key element of the government’s strategy to bridge the development gap in rural areas. By providing electricity to unlit sitios, puroks, or zones—territorial enclaves often located far from barangay centers—SEP addresses the significant challenges these communities face due to the lack of reliable power. The program allocates funds for constructing distribution lines and house wiring facilities, ensuring that eligible households can access modern energy.
The energization ceremony was attended by key officials from MORESCO-1, local government representatives, and community members. Manticao Mayor Stephen S. Tan was represented by Mr. Saturnino Lumawag who highlighted the transformative power of electricity in his message, emphasizing its role in fostering economic activities and improving living standards.
Representative of Cong. Yevgeny Vincente B. Emano, Ex-Prov. Councilor Nancy Madjos said “electricity is not just a commodity; it is a catalyst for growth and development. By lighting up these communities, we are igniting hope and paving the way for a brighter future.”
Vice Mayor Roberto M. Lagrosas shared his reflections on the early days of MORESCO-1’s missionary electrification efforts in the 1960s, underscoring the cooperative’s long-standing dedication to the government’s electrification objectives. “I remember a time when Manticao, like much of Misamis Oriental, had no electricity. MORESCO-1 has been pivotal in changing that reality,” he reminisced.
Engr. Dominique C. Asok, MORESCO-1’s Director for District 2 (Manticao), elaborated on the enduring mission of SEP. “The goal of SEP is closely aligned with the original concept of ‘missionary rural electrification.’ We aim to reach every household, no matter how remote, and provide them with reliable and sustainable energy solutions,” Asok explained.
Residents of the newly electrified sitios expressed their overwhelming joy and gratitude during the ceremony. Kagawad dela Fuente representing Paterno Bayer, the Punong Barangay of Balintad, shared her sentiments: “This is a dream come true for us. With electricity, our children can study better at night, and we can explore new opportunities for livelihood that were previously impossible. However, we must also take responsibility for maintaining the facilities and lines that MORESCO-1 has constructed to bring electricity to us.”
ISD Manager Edna S. Putian – Diango, JD in her message said that “the SEP continues to be a beacon of progress for many underserved communities across the Philippines. The successful energization of sitios in Manticao stands as a testament to the positive impact of this initiative on the lives of its residents”.
Purok 1 Balintad has 10 households-beneficiaries with total project cost of Php1,042,488.34; while Purok 3 Balintad has 19 household beneficiaries with a total project cost of Php 2,899,304.89.
As NEA and its partners like MORESCO-1 and the LGUs work tirelessly towards achieving full electrification, the bright future envisioned for these communities is steadily becoming a reality. (CPRO Jiggs Pacana)
