Manila: The Antique Electric Cooperative (Anteco) is gearing up for a new 25-year franchise to distribute power in the province. Anteco General Manager Neal Peter Ve±egas said on Monday that their 50-year franchise is about to end in 2029. Ve±egas, joined by Board of Directors chair Ludovico Lim, appeared before the Provincial Board to seek endorsement of the new franchise.

According to Philippines News Agency, Anteco is requesting the Provincial Board to endorse their application for a 25-year franchise with the House of Representatives so they could continue to serve their consumers in the 16 municipalities of the province. Anteco currently serves about 120,000 consumers in 537 barangays (villages) of Antique's 16 municipalities. Two other municipalities are being served by the Aklan Electric Cooperative.

Provincial Board member Dante Beriong, in an interview, said they endorsed the new franchise because of the efficient service rendered by Anteco. Beriong expressed hope that the transfer of the two other municipalities, Pandan and Libertad, to Anteco could be materialized soon so that the electric cooperative could serve the entire province.

Anteco assured the Provincial Board that electric posts along the national roads in the province have been removed upon their request since they pose a danger to commuters.