Negros Electric and Power Corp. (Negros Power) is taking a proactive approach to community engagement with the recent launching of its new “PaKAPe Program” aimed at fostering open dialogue and collaboration with barangay officials and residents in Bacolod City.
In a statement, Negros Power said the “PaKAPe Program” serves as a platform for discussing plans and programs related to community concerns, with a focus on strengthening cooperation and building positive relationships between barangays and Negros Power.
“We believe that open communication is key to addressing the needs of our communities,” said chief operations officer Engr. Bailey del Castillo. “Through the Pakape Program, we can work together to ensure a reliable and safe electricity service for all.”
One key component of the Pakape Program is the “BReaD” (Barangay Reassessment Drive) program, which local authorities and Negros Power can gather vital data on the electrical demand across the barangays, identify areas that require upgrades or maintenance, and ensure that safety standards are met for residents.
This initiative plays a crucial role in improving the safety and sustainability of electrical systems in communities.
“This data will be invaluable in identifying areas that need upgrades or maintenance,” Del Castillo explained.
He added that “it will also support the annual budgeting process by determining the budget required for both electricity usage and the electric service connection applications for all unmetered barangay facilities.”
Recognizing the importance of skilled personnel at the barangay level, Negros Power also launched the “BELT” (Barangay Electrician Livelihood Training) program in collaboration with the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority.
This program provides essential knowledge and skills training to barangay personnel and electricians, equipping them to prevent electrical accidents and promote safety with electricity.
“This program is crucial for ensuring the safety of our constituents,” said Barangay Taculing chairman Lady Gles Pallen, who participated in the BELT program.
“With the knowledge and skills gained through this training, we can better address electrical issues in our barangay and prevent accidents,” she added.
This initiative will also help to streamline new electrical applications to Negros Power through the assistance of competent barangay electricians.
In collaboration with the Bureau of Fire Protection, Negros Power has also implemented a “Red Zones” initiative.
This program focuses on 284 fire-prone sitios within 48 barangays in Bacolod City, providing information, education, and communication campaigns to raise awareness about electrical hazards and promote safety practices.
“This initiative is vital for protecting our communities from electrical fires,” city fire marshal FSupt. Jenny Mae Maisip said. “By working together, we can educate residents about electrical safety and reduce the risk of fire incidents.”
This program, according to Negros Power, will profoundly enhance community safety, reduce fire-related incidents, foster compliance with electrical service regulations, and convert unmetered households. ||
