In observance of National Fire Prevention Month, MORESCO-1, in collaboration with the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) Laguindingan, conducted its annual fire evacuation drill and assessment on March 7, 2025. The exercise featured two separate drills—one at the MORESCO-1 Main Office and another at a different operational facility—reinforcing preparedness and safety awareness among employees.
This initiative underscores MORESCO-1’s commitment to ensuring a secure workplace, especially in an industry where operational continuity is crucial. Fire drills not only equip personnel with life-saving response skills but also help assess emergency readiness, evacuation efficiency, and fire risk management protocols. Through this partnership with BFP, MORESCO-1 continues to strengthen its safety culture, protecting both employees and the community it serves.
Atlanta, Georgia, USA – March 10, 2025 – The National Rural Electric Cooperative Association (NRECA) officially launched the 2025 NRECA PowerXchange, bringing together leaders, policymakers, and stakeholders from the electric cooperative sector under the theme “Inspired.” This annual gathering serves as a premier platform for discussions on the evolving landscape of rural electrification, innovative energy solutions, and the future of cooperative leadership.
The opening General Session featured an insightful keynote address by NRECA CEO Jim Matheson, who set the tone for the event by reflecting on the enduring impact of rural electrification initiatives. He emphasized the importance of forward-thinking leadership, strategic energy planning, and the collaborative efforts required to navigate the increasing global demand for reliable and sustainable energy.
Adding an entrepreneurial perspective to the session, Daymond John, business mogul and star of ABC’s Shark Tank, captivated the audience with an inspiring keynote on adaptability, innovation, and resilience in an era of rapid technological transformation. His message resonated strongly with cooperative leaders, reinforcing the need for continuous evolution in the energy sector.
Strengthening International CollaborationA key highlight of the event was the International Luncheon, which facilitated networking and knowledge exchange among NRECA’s global partners, including representatives from PHILRECA and Philippine electric cooperatives. During this session, NRECA International Senior Vice President Dan Waddle provided updates on ongoing international electrification projects and reaffirmed NRECA’s dedication to empowering underserved communities worldwide.
Reinforcing this commitment, CoBank announced a generous $250,000 donation to NRECA International, further bolstering efforts to extend electricity access to remote and underdeveloped areas.
CUTTING-EDGE DISCUSSIONS AND BREAKOUT SESSIONS
The PowerXchange featured a dynamic lineup of breakout sessions covering key industry topics, including:
THE FUTURE OF ELECTRIC COOPERATIVES – Strategic planning and innovation in the face of evolving energy needs.
MAXIMIZING COOPERATIVE VALUE – Enhancing service delivery and optimizing member engagement.
ADDRESSING RISING ENERGY DEMAND – Solutions to meet increasing consumption while ensuring sustainability.
LEVERAGING ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE IN THE ENERGY SECTOR – Exploring AI-driven technologies to enhance efficiency and reliability.
PHILIPPINE DELEGATION’S ACTIVE PARTICIPATION
With the active involvement of PHILRECA, the National Electrification Administration (NEA), and representatives from Philippine electric cooperatives, the 2025 NRECA PowerXchange underscored the significance of global collaboration in shaping the future of rural electrification. The event provided an invaluable platform for knowledge-sharing, networking, and fostering partnerships that will drive the continued success of electric cooperatives worldwide.
As the energy sector navigates unprecedented challenges and opportunities, the insights and strategies exchanged at the 2025 NRECA PowerXchange will undoubtedly empower cooperative leaders to champion innovation, resilience, and sustainability in their respective regions.
(Representing MORESCO-1 is Board President Nonito M. Labis, DVM and ISD Manager Edna S. Putian- Diango who also represented MORESCO-2 as its concurrent Acting General Manager, with MORESCO-2 Board President Rodulfo Cezar P. Olano. )
In 2015, the Philippine Commission on Women (PCW) produced a special rendition of the Philippine National Anthem to recognize and amplify the invaluable contributions of women in all spheres of Philippine society. This version aimed to raise awareness of the pivotal roles women play in shaping the nation—whether in leadership, politics, advocacy, or everyday heroism. bit.ly/4inr9IX
As we approach the 2025 National Women’s Month Celebration, we honor not only the progress made but also the enduring fight for gender equality. This year marks several historic milestones in the pursuit of women’s empowerment in the Philippines and beyond:
50th Anniversary of the Philippine Commission on Women (PCW) – Half a century of championing gender-responsive policies and programs.
30th Anniversary of the Beijing Platform for Action (BPfA) – A global blueprint for women’s rights and equality.
45th Year of the Philippines’ Ratification of the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW) – A commitment to eliminating gender-based discrimination.
30 Years of the Gender and Development (GAD) Budget Policy – A financial framework under RA 7845 ensuring gender mainstreaming in governance.
The Culmination of the 30-Year Philippine Plan for Gender-Responsive Development (PPGD) – A strategic roadmap guiding national efforts toward inclusive growth and women’s empowerment.
These milestones reaffirm the Philippines’ unwavering dedication to fostering a just and equal society—where every woman and girl has the opportunity to thrive. As we celebrate National Women’s Month 2025, we renew our collective resolve to uphold women’s rights, break barriers, and build a future where gender equality is not just a goal, but a reality
