In Bacolod City, the Negros Electric and Power Corp., known as Negros Power, has initiated a collaborative effort with the Bureau of Fire Protection and local barangays to enhance electrical safety and curb the risk of electrical fires. This initiative, dubbed the ‘Pakape Program,’ was announced by Negros Power’s chief operating officer, Bailey del Castillo, and includes three strategic components aimed at ensuring safe and reliable electricity services across the city.
The ‘Red Zones’ initiative focuses on increasing awareness and promoting safety measures in 284 fire-prone areas spread across 48 of the city’s 61 barangays. This effort is designed to not only boost community safety but also to decrease fire incidents, ensure adherence to electrical regulations, and transition households from unmetered to metered electricity usage. City fire marshal Supt. Jenny Mae Maisip emphasized the importance of this initiative in safeguarding communities against electrical fires.
Another component, the ‘BReaD’ or Barangay Reassessment Drive, aims to collect crucial data on electrical demand throughout the barangays. This data will help identify areas needing upgrades or maintenance, ensuring that safety standards are maintained for residents. Del Castillo highlighted the significance of this data in enhancing the safety and sustainability of electrical systems and in supporting the annual budgeting process for electricity usage and service connections.
The third component, the ‘BELT’ or Barangay Electrician Livelihood Training, is a partnership with the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority. It focuses on training barangay personnel and electricians to prevent electrical accidents and promote safety. Liga ang mga Barangay president Lady Gles Pallen stressed the importance of this training in addressing electrical issues and ensuring the safety of community members.
Negros Power provides electricity to Bacolod, Silay, Talisay, and Bago cities, as well as the municipalities of Don Salvador Benedicto and Murcia in Negros Occidental.