The Alliance of Concerned Consumers in Electricity and Social Services (ACCESS) has expressed strong support for the proposed partnership between the Northern Negros Electric Cooperative (NONECO) and the Negros Electric and Power Corporation (Negros Power), describing it as “a crucial step toward modernizing power services and improving consumer welfare in Northern Negros”.
Wennie Sancho, ACCESS president, said in a press release on Thursday, Oct. 16, that their group has already conducted a series of consumer education and awareness programs with their members in the areas served by NONECO in the past months and listened to their clamor for better electric service and affordable rates.
He said that the proposal of Negros Power to NONECO should be viewed as a partnership for progress and that it represents a long-awaited opportunity to address the electric cooperative’s aging infrastructure and service inefficiencies.
He also underscored that the proposed partnership could enhance the stability, efficiency, and reliability of the electric distribution system in Northern Negros.
“Like CENECO, NONECO’s facilities have aged through the years, and modernization is necessary. This partnership can provide the needed capital, technology, and efficiency to meet the growing demands of consumers,” Sancho said.
Sancho cited the positive outcomes of the CENECO–PHI Joint Venture, which resulted in cheaper rates, improved infrastructure, faster response times, and higher consumer satisfaction in Central Negros.
“CENECO’s experience showed that cooperation, not resistance, drives progress. Northern Negros can benefit from the same formula — investment, innovation, and accountability,” Sancho said.
“Just look at Bacolod — in just a year, we have fewer brownouts, quicker response, better service, and cheaper rates. That’s the kind of progress Northern Negros consumers deserve too,” Sancho added.
Addressing opposition from some groups, Sancho clarified that the partnership does not equate to privatization but is designed to uplift consumer welfare and modernize service delivery.
Sancho said “This is not only about privatization or conversion but about bringing in expertise and investment to make electricity service more reliable, efficient, affordable, and inclusive. Which is utmost important to consumers.”
He pointed out that misinformation and misunderstanding may have fueled some opposition, emphasizing the need for information drives and open dialogue to fully inform the public about the agreement’s goals and benefits.
Sancho reiterated that continuous consultation and consumer participation must be prioritized throughout the process. If the proposal passes, he urged NONECO and Negros Power to hold open forums and explain how the partnership will ensure transparency, accountability, and improved service quality.
“Consumers must be informed and involved — this partnership should be built on trust and participation.” Sancho stressed. “Transparency and education are key to ensuring this partnership truly serves the people.”
Serving over 200,000 consumers across E.B. Magalona to San Carlos City, NONECO covers one of the largest franchise areas in Negros.
Sancho underscored the importance of forming strong consumer alliances to ensure people’s voices are represented in future consultations and implementation.
He emphasized that if the partnership moves forward, consumer organizations like ACCESS will continue to monitor, educate, and actively protect consumer rights.
“This partnership is not a threat — it’s a solution. NONECO needs a partner like Negros Power to bring in the investment and technology that will truly serve the consumers of Northern Negros,” Sancho said. “Let’s move forward with cooperation, transparency, and a shared vision for progress.”*
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