Iloilo City’s sole electricity distributor MORE Power recently convened newly elected barangay officials to underscore their pivotal role within their respective communities. These barangay chairpersons are instrumental in ensuring the safety and security of their families and neighbors.
For several years since MORE Power started its operation in Iloilo City, illegal connections have been a prime problem for its operations and power rate.
This did not deter the power company; instead, in less than 5 years, it was able to decrease its systems loss to single digit and provide competitive yet efficient power to the Ilonggo community.
Based on Republic Act No. 7832, or the Anti-Pilferage of Electricity and Theft of Electric Transmission Line/Materials Act of 1994, tapping into neighbor’s electrical lines is illegal, as is doing the same with tapping on the city’s streetlights.
During the orientation, MORE Power President and CEO Mr. Roel Castro highlighted the role of barangay officials in ensuring that their constituents are complying with this to avoid getting sued for violation.
“If the barangays are doing well, the city is doing well; then we will have a better city for investment, mababa ang presyo, maliwanag ang syudad, mababa ang crime rate,” says Mr. Castro.
The initiative aims to illuminate the city’s streets, bolster road safety, and reduce crime rates by addressing illegal connections.
During the orientation, the barangay officials were given the opportunity to seek clarification and express their thoughts, which were promptly addressed during the forum.
Iloilo City Government officials thanked the power company for paving the way to competitive power rates, which led to more investments in the city.
“Your presence in the city has brought significant help in the city’s economy and development. Having a reliable power service coupled with reasonable power rates is an added attraction to investors and to those who wish to retire and live a comfortable life in our beloved city,” says Mayor Jerry Treñas through his Executive Assistant, Mr. Francis Cruz.
Newly elected barangay officials were delighted that MORE Power gathered them for an orientation on their programs. “Nami gid ang orientation sang MORE Power maayo gid. Nahibaluannamon, especially kami ngamga bag-o lang nganagdaugngaopisyal, ang mgaprograma sang MORE Power ilabena gid ang anti-pilferage,” said Barangay Captain EspredionVijuan, Jr. of Loboc, Lapuz.
In recognition of their role, each barangay official was honored with a certificate and gift packs from MORE Power, acknowledging their commitment to ensuring a compliant and responsible community.
