Power Watch Negros Launches Consumer Education and Awareness Program in North Negros

Power Watch Negros Advocates Inc. (PWNA) is set to roll out its Consumer Education and Awareness Program (CEAP) across Northern Negros, an initiative aimed at empowering electricity consumers through education and active participation in energy-related issues.

The CEAP seeks to inform consumers about their rights and responsibilities, promote energy efficiency, and advocate for transparency in power rate setting. It also aims to give consumers a stronger voice in shaping policies that directly affect their electricity services, PWNA Secretary-General Wennie Sancho, who will serve as CEAP’s program coordinator, said.

The initiative will be piloted in the coverage areas of Northern Negros Electric Cooperative (NONECO) — from the municipality of E.B. Magalona to San Carlos City, he said.

Sancho added that he will be assisted by Engr. Ramon Gumban, head of CEAP’s Technical Working Group (TWG). Together with distribution utilities, government agencies, consumer organizations, and other power industry stakeholders, PWNA hopes to foster development and progress in the Negros Island Region (NIR) power sector.

During CEAP’s orientation meeting with PWNA officers and TWG members, participants cited the success of Negros Electric and Power Corp. (Negros Power) in improving electricity services in Central Negros through its partnership with Central Negros Electric Cooperative (CENECO), Sancho also added.

Negros Power’s ₱1.2-billion investment in its first year of operations led to significant improvements, including the rehabilitation and upgrading of substations and distribution networks. These efforts reduced system losses from 13 percent to 7 percent, enhanced reliability, and lowered electricity rates. More than 30 sitios were electrified, benefitting over 1,600 residents.

Sancho said NONECO could explore similar reforms to reduce outages and improve service quality for its consumers.

The CEAP is scheduled to kick off shortly after September 15, 2025, with a series of seminars and fora across Northern Negros. Attendance will be free of charge, and consumers are encouraged to participate and even join PWNA as individual or group members.

“Through CEAP, we want to empower consumers with knowledge so they can demand better services, practice energy efficiency, and have a voice in decisions that impact their daily lives,” Sancho said.

Schedules and venue details will be announced soon.*