The milestones achieved by Negros Electric and Power Corp. during its first 16 months of operations as the power distribution utility in central Negros got praises from former Negros Occidental governor Rafael Coscolluela.
“We appreciate the transparency shown by Negros Power over the last two years. It is good to know what is happening on the ground – we’ve seen everything from connectors to substations,” Coscolluela said in a statement issued by the distribution utility.
“We have also observed a significant reduction in brownouts as well as notable improvements in system loss reduction, which directly benefits consumers who ultimately bear these costs”.
Coscolluela, the consultant on energy and environment of the Negros Occidental provincial government, and representatives from various civic groups and the Social Action Center of the Diocese of Bacolod recently visited the Negros Power headquarters along Lacson St. in Bacolod City.
The delegation was personally guided by Negros Power president and chief executive officer Roel Castro, who provided a comprehensive look into the company’s day-to-day operations, including customer care services, the control center, helpline, and energy trading offices.
During the visit, Castro presented the company’s key accomplishments, highlighting capacity upgrades, reliability and modernization programs, system loss reduction, expansion of customer services, sitio electrification initiatives, corporate social responsibility efforts, energy sourcing and power rates, transition strategies toward renewable energy, and the ongoing rollout of critical infrastructure projects scheduled for completion by 2026.
Negros Power said it has already invested P1.3 billion in capital expenditures (capex) as of Dec. 31, 2025, underscoring the company’s strong commitment to improving power reliability, efficiency, and safety throughout its franchise area.
These investments reflect Negros Power’s long-term vision to modernize the power distribution system and deliver better, more dependable service to consumers.
The most significant portion of the capex was directed toward reliability-focused projects.
These include the upgrading and modernization of substations, power lines, poles, and transformers as well as the rehabilitation and replacement of aging meters and other critical infrastructure.
The company also invested in modern substation testing tools and equipment to ensure system integrity and reduce the risk of outages.
To further enhance customer service, Negros Power allocated substantial resources to information technology infrastructure, software, and digital tools designed to streamline operations and improve the overall customer experience.
Additional investments supported office equipment, tools, furniture, fixtures, and the construction and improvement of the main office, sub-offices, and warehouses aimed at achieving faster response times and more efficient service delivery.
Recognizing the critical importance of safety, the company invested in modern safety equipment and personal protective equipment for field personnel.
At the same time, investments in human capital – through training programs, professional development initiatives, and industry conferences – highlight Negros Power’s commitment to building a skilled, competent, and safety-conscious workforce.
Negros Power has also allocated P250 million for its three-year Sitio Electrification Program, which aims to achieve 100 percent electrification across its franchise area.
The program extends electricity access to underserved and remote communities through the installation of poles, power lines, and transformers, supporting inclusive growth and community development.
Castro said these investments are part of a broader strategy to build a resilient, modern, and customer-focused power distribution system.
“Our capex investments reflect our commitment to providing reliable, safe, and efficient electricity service. This is not just about infrastructure – it’s about empowering communities, supporting economic growth, and improving the everyday lives of our consumers,” Castro said. ||
