Bacolod: The signing of an ordinance establishing underground cabling in this city will boost the ongoing construction of the underground distribution system project along a major thoroughfare initiated by the Negros Electric and Power Corp. (Negros Power).
According to Philippines News Agency, the kilometer-long Lacson Street Underground Distribution System Project costs PHP43 million for civil and electrical works, and PHP36 million for reconfiguration and removal of overhead wires. It broke ground in November 2024, marking the first of its kind in the city.
Negros Power's chief operating officer, Bernard Bailey del Castillo, expressed gratitude towards the city government after outgoing Mayor Alfredo Abelardo Benitez announced the signing of the local legislation. Del Castillo stated, "We thank the mayor and also the councilors for approving the city ordinance. This is the most important document that we can use when we will ask for the approval of the project," during a radio interview.
Del Castillo further explained that Negros Power had already commenced excavations after securing necessary permits, even before the ordinance's approval. He mentioned that the construction phase is expected to continue until December, with a significant portion anticipated to be completed by October.
The ordinance, authored by incoming vice mayor Councilor Claudio Jesus Puentevella, emphasizes that constructing and instituting underground cabling for all power and telecommunication networks will be a priority program for the Bacolod city government.
