Baguio: The Benguet Electric Cooperative (Beneco) expressed optimism regarding the imminent signing of a bill by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. that would grant the cooperative a renewed 25-year franchise. This extension is anticipated to facilitate negotiations for a stable power supply and more favorable electricity prices.

According to Philippines News Agency, Chris Gonzales, head of Beneco's Community Relations Office, emphasized the importance of electricity for daily life and livelihood, noting the President's awareness of these concerns. The legislative body has already passed bills in both houses approving the 25-year franchise for Beneco and several other electric distribution utilities across the country.

Beneco currently serves 144,000 consumer members with over 250,000 electric meter connections throughout Baguio and Benguet. Gonzales expressed confidence that the President's signature will soon make the bill law, benefiting electric consumers by securing long-term power supply contracts at competitive prices.

Pending the franchise approval, Beneco is engaging in short-term contracts to meet the immediate power requirements of its service area, including Baguio City. Gonzales highlighted the importance of reliable power supply for local economic zones, malls, water utilities, educational institutions, and regional offices.

The 25-year franchise will also enable Beneco to explore power-generating initiatives, potentially selling excess power to the grid and utilizing savings for energization projects or further reducing consumer electricity costs.

To ensure reliable power supply during the wet season, Beneco is actively conducting vegetation clearing to prevent power interruptions. Gonzales noted that maintenance personnel regularly inspect power lines, as changes in weather can affect distribution capability. The cooperative remains committed to preventing power disruptions and consistently meeting client demands.