Empowering Communities: 77 Barangay Electricians Complete Livelihood Training In Negros

A total of 77 barangay electricians from four key cities in Negros Occidental have successfully completed the inaugural Barangay Electrician Livelihood Training (BELT) held on October 9, 2025. This milestone initiative aims to strengthen community safety while creating new livelihood opportunities for skilled workers in the power sector.

The first phase of the BELT program gathered participants from Bacolod City (28), Bago City (20), Talisay City (18), and Silay City (11) — all eager to enhance their technical knowledge and expand their career prospects. The full-day training, hosted at the Provincial Government Office, marked the start of a provincewide effort to professionalize and empower grassroots electricians.

A joint project of Negros Power, the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA), and local barangay leaders, the program focused on safe residential wiring practices, stakeholder collaboration, and livelihood sustainability.

According to Miss Maricel Pe, Assistant Vice President for Customer Care and Marketing Head of Negros Power, the initiative is designed to go beyond technical instruction.

“The BELT program is not just about training — it’s about empowerment,” Pe shared. “Our barangay electricians are our partners in ensuring that every home and community is safe, well-lit, and future-ready. Through TESDA’s support, we’re opening doors to better opportunities and stronger communities.”

Engr. Bernard Del Castillo, Chief Operating Officer and Chief Technical Officer of Negros Power, also emphasized the vital role of competence in public safety.

“Electricity is the backbone of modern living, and safety starts with skilled hands,” he said. “Through this training, we are equipping our barangay electricians with the right technical knowledge and standards to ensure that every household connection is safe and compliant.”

The participants themselves expressed gratitude for the program’s practical value.

• Ramil Dela Cruz of Talisay City said the training boosted his confidence and job readiness: “We learned new techniques in safe wiring and proper handling of electrical systems. It gives us more confidence to serve our communities and opens doors for more job opportunities.”
• John Jolito from Bago City highlighted their growing awareness of their role in safety: “We gained a lot of practical knowledge and safety reminders that we can apply immediately. It also made us realize our role in keeping our communities safe from electrical hazards.”
• Arman Diokno of Bacolod City noted the economic benefit: “The training didn’t just upgrade our skills—it gave us hope and direction.”

Following the success of its first run, the second phase of the BELT program is already scheduled for October 29, 2025, in Murcia, where more electricians will undergo the same capacity-building initiative.

With programs like BELT, Negros Power continues to strengthen its commitment to service beyond electricity, focusing on community empowerment, skills development, and public safety across Negros Occidental.