The Sangguniang Bayan (SB) of the Municipality of Pavia has taken a significant step towards ensuring better electricity service and lower rates for its residents and neighboring towns. A resolution introduced by SB members Hon. Jose Maria Trimañez and Hon. Daniel Fajardo II, advocating for the expansion of MORE Electric and Power Corporation’s (MORE Power) operations into 14 municipalities, including Passi City, was unanimously approved by the council.
In a statement following the resolution’s approval, SB member Pyt Trimañez expressed his enthusiasm for the potential benefits this expansion could bring. “We are miles away, but we are able to craft a resolution that will benefit our fellow Pavianhons and other Municipalities, including Passi City,” Trimañez shared. He also extended his gratitude to his colleagues, particularly Councilor Dan “Dol” Fajardo, saying, “Thank you, my Fraternal Bro Councilor Dan ‘Dol’ Fajardo, for your inputs and time.”
This resolution is the culmination of efforts that began approximately three years ago when Pavia’s local government, along with consumers, pushed for MORE Power to broaden its services. This movement was bolstered by a bill introduced by Congressman Mike Gorriceta, eventually leading to the passage of Republic Act 11918. This law, which took effect in August 2022, granted MORE Power the franchise to distribute electricity in Pavia and other municipalities in Iloilo province.
However, this expansion faced challenges, particularly from Iloilo Electric Cooperatives (ILECOs), which contested the constitutionality of MORE Power’s franchise, citing overlaps with their exclusive service areas. These legal battles caused delays in MORE Power’s entry into Pavia. The recent Supreme Court decision, affirming the constitutionality of MORE Power’s franchise and declaring that ILECOs’ franchises are not exclusive, has cleared the path for the distribution utility’s expansion.
Trimañez highlighted the importance of the resolution in responding to the ongoing demand for better services and lower rates. “If this will push through, MORE Power will expand its operation in 14 municipalities, including Passi City,” he stated. Trimañez also pointed out the advantages of MORE Power’s service, noting that “the rate of MORE Power for the residential class has consistently been lower than the ILECO 1 for the last 12 months.”
The success of MORE Power’s recent expansion in Negros, through a joint venture agreement with Central Negros Electric Cooperative (CENECO) under the Negros Electric and Power Corporation franchise, was also cited as a model for potential collaboration in Iloilo.
The resolution encourages MORE Power to proceed with its expansion in Pavia and other municipalities without further delay, responding to the long-standing call for enhanced service and affordable rates. Additionally, it requests MORE Power and ILECO 1 to explore the potential for a Joint Venture Agreement, similar to the successful model implemented in Negros.
With the obstacles now cleared, Pavia’s local government, led by proactive leaders like Trimañez and Fajardo, is hopeful that this expansion will bring about significant improvements in electricity service for Pavianhons and residents of nearby municipalities.
