NEA Approves 96 Sitios and Puroks in the Province of Agusan del Sur for Sitio Electrification Program (SEP)

The National Electrification Administration (NEA) approves the request of the Agusan del Sur Electric Cooperative, Inc. (ASELCO) for the electrification of 96 sitios and puroks in the province of Agusan del Sur through the Sitio Electrification Program (SEP). This is funded by the government through the 2023 SEP GAA Subsidy, with a total allocation of 226 million pesos.

Of the 96 sitios and puroks listed, they are distributed across the province of Agusan del Sur as follows: 7 in Bunawan, 3 in Sta. Josefa, 4 in Trento, 3 in Veruela, 10 in La Paz, 3 in Loreto, 11 in San Luis, 8 in Talacogon, 12 in Bayugan City, 2 in Esperanza, 4 in Sibagat, 16 in Prosperidad, 12 in San Francisco, and 1 in Rosario.

The project involves the construction of distribution line extensions to connect the 96 sitios and puroks to the power grid. Additionally, kWh meters and house wiring materials will be installed in 2,530 beneficiary Agsurnons. The NEA has evaluated the cost of these projects, amounting to 205,660,900.90 pesos and 21,271,622.85 pesos, respectively.

This is the outcome of the close coordination of ASELCO to the Provincial Government of Agusan del Sur and Team Eddiebong that led doors for the potential inclusion of additional sitios and puroks in this year’s SEP. The significance of this electrification initiative cannot be overstated, as it addresses a long-standing need and sets the stage for comprehensive development and enhanced living standards in these areas.

On September 22, 2023, a coordination meeting was conducted among the area offices of ASELCO to ensure a smooth implementation of the electrification project. The meeting also serves as a platform to brainstorm solutions that expedite the electrification process, learning from challenges encountered during the recently finished SEP project. This includes determining local government units (LGUs) that waived fees associated with obtaining mayors’ permits for the electrification of households, benefiting the recipients.

The NEA’s approval for the SEP 96 in Agusan del Sur is a fire of hope, promising to bring about positive change and development to the lives of countless Agsurnons. Electrifying these areas will not only illuminate homes but also illuminate the path to a brighter, more prosperous future for the province as a whole.

Impact of the SEP Initiative on the Community

The SEP initiative will have a profound impact on the lives of the 2,530 families in the 96 sitios and puroks. Access to electricity will improve their quality of life in many ways, including:

  • Improved lighting: Disregarding any disruptions in power supply, the presence of electricity will ensure secure and dependable lighting for both households and commercial establishments. This, in turn, will contribute to the reduction of criminal activities and an overall enhancement of safety. Additionally, it will facilitate nighttime studying for students and enable individuals to engage in work during evening hours.
  • Improved access to information and communication: Electricity will enable people to access information and communication technologies, such as the internet and television. This will help them to stay connected with the world around them and to learn about new opportunities.
  • Improved economic opportunities: Electricity will soon support the development of businesses and industries in the 96 sitios and puroks. This will create new jobs and opportunities for people to earn a living.
  • Improved health and well-being: Electricity will power essential appliances, such as refrigerators and water pumps. This will help to improve people’s health and well-being by providing them with access to clean water and food.

The NEA’s approval of the SEP 96 in Agusan del Sur is a significant development that will have a positive impact on the lives of countless people. ASELCO is committed to ensuring the smooth implementation of the project and is working closely with different Government Agencies to ensure that all beneficiary Agsurnons have access to electricity as soon as possible.

The SEP is a testament to the government’s commitment to rural electrification and to improving the lives of people in all parts of the country. It is a beacon of hope for the future, promising to bring about positive change and development to the 95 sitios and puroks of Agusan del Sur. This significantly contributes to NEA’s ambitious goal of achieving “Total Electrification by 2028.”