Socoteco consumers demand transparency

GENERAL SANTOS CITY — Member-consumers of South Cotabato II Electric Cooperative Inc. (Socoteco II) are pushing for transparency, urging the cooperative’s leadership to disclose details of reported joint venture talks with major power distribution firms. Their concerns center on potential privatization and its impact on electricity rates and local control.

In a signed petition, residents and community leaders from Barangay Buayan called on Socoteco II’s Board of Directors to publicly release the declarations of interest submitted by MORE Power, Meralco and Aboitiz Power, which have reportedly expressed willingness to assist the cooperative with its financial challenges.

“Let the public know the real status and details of the privatization offers from MORE Power and Meralco — especially how they will affect electricity rates and control of the cooperative. We are not asking for anything excessive,” the petition said in Filipino, emphasizing that consumers are seeking clear, factual information rather than speculation or assurances.

While Socoteco II has previously stated that no formal joint venture agreement has been finalized, the petitioners said uncertainty lingers. They fear negotiations may already be happening without proper public consultation. As member-owners of the cooperative, they stressed, consumers have the right to be informed and consulted on decisions that could significantly affect rates, governance, and the utility’s future structure.

“What we are asking for is true respect for the rights of consumers and owners — the right to information and the right to be heard,” the petition added, reflecting the collective voice of residents seeking clarity, fairness, and security regarding the cooperative’s direction.

The call for transparency comes amid heightened attention following a recent visit by Socoteco II’s Board of Directors, along with several Sarangani mayors, to MORE Power earlier this month. The delegation attended a presentation on MORE Power’s Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition system, which some consumers interpreted as a sign of deeper engagement between the cooperative and the private firm.