P1.108-B electricity for remote areas

Manila Bulletin
By GENALYN D. KABILING
January 9, 2012, 8:03pm


MANILA, Philippines — The government has set aside P1.108 billion to hasten the implementation of two major electrification programs.


President Benigno S. Aquino III approved the release of the funds to the National Electrification Administration (NEA) to provide reliable electricity in far-flung villages, according to Budget Secretary Florencio Abad.


From the P1.1-billion fund, Abad said P518.92 million will be spent for the Barangay Line Enhancement Project (BLEP) to improve electric services in 202 barangays, while P589.32 million will go to the Sitio Electrification Project (SEP) to connect 833 sitios to the nation's power grid.


“The P1.108-billion release will allow the NEA to provide electricity to off-grid sitios and other unelectrified communities, as well as improve the delivery of basic services in the countryside so that power disruptions and other connection-related problems are prevented,” Abad said.


The government seeks to provide electricity to 2,341 barangays and to light up 32,441 sitios by 2015.


In the last quarter of 2011, the budget department released P814 million to NEA to energize 1,520 unconnected sitios. The funds were sourced from the Department of Energy’s (DoE) Malampaya Fund.


“In exceeding its set targets for sitio electrification, the Aquino administration, together with the DoE and the NEA, reaffirms its goal of connecting more un-energized communities to the national grid. By giving these sitios better access to electricity, we can empower more Filipinos—particularly those living in remote areas—into becoming productive members of their communities, and ultimately, of society,” Abad said.


He said the electrification project has provided additional jobs for the communities, citing the hiring of residents as electricians and laborers. The construction industry also got a shot in the arm since the electrification program increased demand for electrical supplies and logistical services.


“The response from locals has been very enthusiastic and encouraging. Many residents are happy they can now listen to the radio and watch television," Abad said.