After years of living without electricity, the residents of Purok Sunflower in Barangay Binubuhan are now able to enjoy the convenience and safety of modern power. Negros Power officially switched on the Sitio Electrification Program on 17 March 2025, bringing electricity to nearly 90 homes in the remote community.

The project, which is the longest power line built under Negros Power’s electrification initiative, stretches across 36 spans and includes 60 newly installed electric poles and three transformers. This marks a significant step forward for a community that has relied on kerosene lamps for generations.

For 71-year-old resident Amelita Boltes, the arrival of electricity is a long-awaited blessing. "Mabudlay gid mag-gawi kung wala suga," she said. "Tigulang na ako, 71 anyos na pero wala gid ko kaagi nga may kuryente sa balay gani subong nalipay gid ako kay indi na delikado sa akon kapin na gid kun gab-i." The change means safer and more convenient living, especially at night.

Jobert Quatero, the Purok President, reflected on the significance of the electrification project, noting that many in the community had passed away without ever experiencing the comfort of electricity in their homes. "Iban di sa amon nagtaliwan nalang nga wala nagana sa ila panimalay. Dugay na ni namon nga handom nga magkakuryente, gani dako gid ang amon pasalamat sa Negros Power nga sa madugay nga panahon, may kasanag na sa amon Purok," Quatero said.

This electrification project is part of Negros Power’s broader initiative to bring electricity to underserved areas across its franchise. CEO and President Roel Z. Castro emphasized the company’s commitment to energizing all communities. "We want everyone, every sitio, to have electricity," Castro said. "If the city has electricity, the sitios should have it, too. We are committed to this mission, and we will do it. We are here to help, and we will deliver on our promises."

The ceremonial switch-on of the power system was attended by key figures from Negros Power, as well as local government officials from Bago City and Barangay Binubuhan. The event celebrated not only the arrival of electricity but also the sense of hope and progress it brings to the community.

Bago City Mayor Nicholas Yulo praised Negros Power for prioritizing the electrification of rural areas. "We voted for this new franchisee because we knew they would bring the funds and the capital for rural electrification," Yulo said. "We are grateful to be prioritized by Negros Power, and we are confident that within a few years, 100% of Bago City will be energized."

Vice Mayor Ramon Torres echoed Yulo’s sentiments, emphasizing that Purok Sunflower was just the beginning. "You should be proud because you are the first in Bago City to benefit from this program," Torres said. "After you, they will also bring light to the sitios in the other areas."

The electrification of Purok Sunflower marks a pivotal moment in the community’s history. This project is a testament to the power of collaboration and the lasting impact of bringing electricity to the most remote areas of Central Negros. For the residents of Purok Sunflower, the arrival of electricity represents a brighter, safer, and more hopeful future.