Negros Power Brings Energy Industry Leaders Together For PEPOA Conference In Bacolod

As the Philippine power sector continues to respond to changing energy needs, stronger coordination among utilities, regulators, and industry stakeholders remains important in addressing issues that affect electricity reliability and supply.

This was highlighted during the Private Electric Power Operators Association (PEPOA) Conference, hosted by Negros Electric and Power Corporation (Negros Power) on September 10 at Citadines Bacolod.

The conference formed part of ASCEND 2026, which carried the theme “Powering the Future Together: Advancing Smarter Energy Innovations for a Resilient System.” It brought together representatives from private distribution utilities and the Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) for discussions on key developments in the electricity industry, particularly those affecting the Visayas.

Industry Stakeholders Discuss Power Sector Concerns

The gathering provided an opportunity for participants to exchange views on several areas of the power industry, including regulatory matters, market operations, power supply, and system reliability.

ERC officials who attended included Chairperson Atty. Francis Saturnino Juan, Supervising Energy Regulation Officer Engr. Roland Albert Rivera, and Sharon Montaner of the Market Operations Service.

Also present was PEPOA President Atty. Ranulfo Ocampo, along with representatives from various private distribution utilities.

Representing Negros Power and Primelectric Holdings Inc. was President and CEO Roel Z. Castro, together with company executives and representatives.

One of the key activities was an open discussion between ERC officials and distribution utilities. Participants were able to raise industry concerns, seek clarification on regulatory matters, and share experiences from their respective service areas.

Collaboration and Innovation in Focus

Ocampo highlighted the importance of cooperation across the electricity sector, particularly as utilities and regulators work through common industry challenges.

Castro, meanwhile, emphasized the need for the power industry to prepare for rising energy requirements through innovation, technology, and continued improvements in power infrastructure.

For the Visayas, reliable electricity remains closely connected to the needs of communities, businesses, and local economies. Strengthening the systems that deliver power is therefore an important part of supporting the region’s continued development.

Strengthening the Power Sector Through Dialogue

The PEPOA Conference underscored the value of regular dialogue between regulators and distribution utilities. Discussions such as these allow industry players to better understand regulatory concerns, exchange practical experiences, and explore ways to improve electricity services.

For Negros Power, hosting the conference also provided an opportunity to contribute to broader industry conversations on reliability, innovation, infrastructure, and the future energy requirements of the Visayas.

As energy demand continues to evolve, sustained cooperation among stakeholders will remain an important part of building a more responsive and resilient power sector.