TABUK CITY, Kalinga – The Kalinga-Apayao Electric Cooperative, Inc. (KAELCO) recognized its 69 linemen for their continuous dedication and hard work as “Warriors of Light” during the Line Workers Appreciation Day on Monday, August 5.
“This is a yearly activity not only to show our appreciation but to honor their heroic acts and sacrifices and acknowledge their contribution to the success of KAELCO in carrying its advocacy for rural development and for ensuring more efficient, reliable, and globally competitive electric service to its member-consumer-owners,” Rekita Alunday, HR Division Chief of KAELCO, stated.
Presidential Proclamation No. 1743 declares August as National Electrification Awareness Month. And to celebrate the role of electric cooperative line workers, Line Workers Appreciation Day is held every first Monday of the month.
National Line Workers’ Appreciation Day, observed on August 5, commemorates the men and women who work around the clock and often risk their lives to keep our lights and power on.
They are in charge of repairing broken power lines during storms, turning on lights during power outages regardless of time or cause, and working atop poles above major highways to keep the power on for every family.
According to national lineman polls and utility company data, utility line work is one of the top ten most dangerous jobs, with more than 42 workers killed on the job per 100,000 people each year.
They work hundreds of feet above the ground, building and repairing electrical lines, and are frequently the first personnel called in during natural catastrophes, extreme weather, and times of crisis. They frequently clear a scene before first responders arrive to aid with rescues, fires, traffic control, or other potentially harmful liberations.
During the event, KAELCO General Manager Elvie Joven expressed her appreciation for the bravery of the cooperative’s linemen, who serve as frontliners, putting their lives at risk every day at work.
“You are brave heroes. Your job is dangerous but often unnoticed. You also often receive negative comments, but I advise you to ignore them. Just keep on doing your work,” Joven said.
The general manager also requested the cooperative’s committee to develop a policy that provides additional incentives while simultaneously ensuring the safety of line workers.
Randy Mabanta, one of KAELCO’s lineman, expressed gratitude for the action and hopes that the policy would be adopted soon, as he believes it will benefit both his family and his colleagues.
In a virtual meeting, PHILRECA Representative Presley De Jesus, APEC Representative Sergio Dagooc, NEA Administrator Antonio Mariano Almeda, and PHILRECA General Manager Atty. Janeene Depay-Colingan also gave their messages of appreciation to the line workers. By Tabuk PIO
