Legazpi City: The National Electrification Administration (NEA) and the Ako Bicol Party-list (AKB) have officially allocated PHP367 million in subsidy funds to the Albay Electric Cooperative Inc. (Aleco) for a series of infrastructure and rehabilitation projects.
According to Philippines News Agency, during a ceremonial turnover held at the Aleco office, NEA Deputy Administrator for Corporate Resources and Financial Services, Vic Alvaro, explained that the subsidy is financed through the General Appropriations Act of 2024, spearheaded by AKB party-list Representative Elizaldy Co. Alvaro noted that the funds would be transferred through banks once Aleco completes the necessary documentation, with project implementation anticipated to commence by June and continue throughout the year.
Alvaro highlighted the combined efforts of the national government and AKB in enhancing electricity services in Albay, emphasizing the legislative origins and budgetary approval of the subsidy. He credited Representative Elizaldy Co for initiating this effort in the House of Representatives, aligning it with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.'s objective of achieving full electrification across the country by 2028. Alvaro also stated that the subsidy is intended primarily to benefit Aleco's members and consumers in the province.
The allocation includes PHP10.1 million for converting bare wires to insulated wires along an eight-kilometer stretch from the Salvacion Substation in Sto. Domingo to Bacacay, Albay. Additionally, PHP49.7 million is designated for the restoration of distribution lines, upgrading from single-phase to three-phase lines in Maguiron, Quibongbongan, and Malobago, all located in Guinobatan, Albay. Furthermore, PHP130.5 million will fund the installation of a 1x20 megavolt-amperes (MVA) substation in Cullat, Daraga, while PHP177.3 million is allocated for enhancing the Ligao Substation's capacity from 2x10 MVA to 2x20 MVA.
Representative Co emphasized the importance of these projects in establishing a more reliable electricity service in Albay, predicting that a dependable power supply would attract tourists and businesses, subsequently generating employment opportunities and improving livelihoods for residents.
