MANILA (Mindanao Examiner / Aug. 8, 2014) – The Department of Budget and Management said it released some P7.68 billion to the National Electrification Administration to energize off-grid communities in various remote areas in the country.
The DMB said P6.36 billion of the total amount released will support the implementation of the Sitio Electrification Project and that P3.29 billion have so far been released to support the program initially in 4,395 communities. It said P1.26 billion was also allotted for the Barangay Line Enhancement Project.
“The Aquino administration is putting more barangays and sitios on the grid this year so they can finally gain access to power services. This is a crucial step in helping these communities and their residents take control of their socioeconomic development. Many of these communities are located in remote and far-flung parts of the country, and connecting them to the grid will allow families to stay productive even after sundown,” Budget Secretary Florencio Abad said.
He said the remaining P57.8 million of the total amount released has been set aside for the implementation of both the SEP and BLEP in conflict-affected areas covered by the Payapa at Masaganang Pamayanan program.
“Now that we are at the cusp of formally establishing lasting peace in the Bangsamoro, we can focus even more closely on pursuing socio-economic development in the region. Access to electricity is one of the basic services that Bangsamoro communities will receive, alongside other peace and economic interventions. This is exactly what we mean when we say ‘inclusive growth,’ where the benefits of economic growth can truly be felt by everyone,” Abad said.
As of June 30, a total of 16,467 sitios have been completely energized through the SEP since 2011. BLEP has likewise enhanced a total of 436 barangays during the same period.
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