The legitimate electric cooperative–member-consumer owners (EC-MCO) called on concerned stakeholders to come together and rally behind the urgent renewal of the franchise of the Benguet Electric Cooperative (BENECO) to sustain the implementation of the government’ rural electrification program even to non-viable communities in Benguet which is within its franchise area.
Daniel ‘Dane’ Ducayag, EC-MCO president, underscored the people of Baguio and Benguet must stand to protect the last frontier and ensure they will continue to benefit from the reliable, cheap and adorable electricity that BENEO provides aside from the quality to service that it is rendering to the MCOs.
“The appeal to support House Bill 6145 for the renewal of BENECO’s franchise is a plea for the preservation of Benguet’s last frontier. It’s a call to safeguard the prosperity, progress, and well-being of the people who call this remarkable province their home. As Benguet’s elected representative, Rep. Eric Yap holds the power to influence the fate of HB 6145 and, by extension, the future of BENECO.
We urge him to take a stand in favor of renewing BENECO’s franchise, recognizing the immense benefits it offers to his constituents. The people of Benguet are hopeful that their representative will heed their appeal and champion their cause in the legislative halls of the Philippines, securing the future of BENECO and the province it serves,” Ducayag stressed.
The EC-MCO official pointed out that the renewal of BENECO’s franchise is not just a legal requirement but it is also a moral obligation to the people of Benguet apart from being an investment for the future of the province and the people which is a commitment for the welfare of the residents and a testament to the power of unity in times of adversities.
House Bill 6145, introduced by Baguio District Rep. Go, presents a lifeline for BENECO. It seeks to grant the much-needed franchise renewal, ensuring that the cooperative can continue to serve the people of Benguet for years to come. The bill, with the support of Rep. Yap and other legislators, can ensure the sustainability of BENECO’s operations and its commitment to providing reliable electricity to the province.
“We, the residents of Benguet, are making a united appeal to Rep. Eric Yap, who represents our interests in the legislative halls of the Philippines. We believe that Rep. Yap’s support, the support of the members of the congress, and BENECO’s stakeholders for House Bill 6145 are crucial in ensuring the continuity of BENECO’s operations. It’s not just about renewing a franchise; it’s about safeguarding the future of Benguet and its people,” he added.
Ducayag explained that for many people in Benguet, BENECO is their last frontier being the sole provider of quality electricity that powers their homes, sustains their businesses, and keeps their hospitals and schools running at a relatively affordable rate.
Further, its impact extends far beyond the provisions of electricity, it symbolizes resilience, unity, and progress.
According to him, Benguet residents are determined to preserve the said essential service and want their leaders in Baguio and Benguet to stand with them in the said critical endeavor. Ducayag claimed that the Baguio and Benguet communities are understandably concerned about the future as BENECO’s franchise is set to expire in 2028 and the consequences of non-renewal could be dire considering that failure to renew the said franchise would not only jeopardize the livelihood of the thousands who rely on the electric cooperative’s services but also hinder the economic development of the province and the city as well.
He asserted that BENECO’s history is intertwined with the fabric of Benguet’s development. Organized in 1973, it has played a pivotal role in energizing the remote and rugged terrains of the province, allowing residents to enjoy the benefits of modern living.
BENECO has not only illuminated homes over the past several decades but it has also facilitated economic growth and improved the overall quality of life for the people living in the rural communities of Benguet.
For the people of Benguet, BENECO is not just an electric utility provider, it’s a lifeline that connects homes, businesses and communities.
However, the said vital lifeline is now in need of renewal, and the residents are making a heartfelt appeal to their representatives to support the bill filed for the timely renewal of BENECO’s franchise.
