Message of Support to BENECO from Gov. Dr. Melchor Daguines Diclas

The Benguet Electric Cooperative (BENECO) is currently facing a difficult situation even in the midst of other challenges brought by the present pandemic and the recent Severe Tropical Storm Maring. I, together with the local chief executives and other officials in the Province of Benguet, cannot condone this act of forcibly taking over the leadership of our electric cooperative. We have earlier shown our unified support to Engr. Melchor S. Licoben through different endorsements addressed to the national government given his expertise, trainings, 30-year work experience in BENECO, and his good leadership as the OIC General Manager; and until now we are still in full support of him and the seven other Board of Directors.   

We do not see any good reason for the recent National Electrification Administration (NEA) intervention with BENECO as the cooperative has been well-performing and efficiently serving the public. BENECO remains to be one of the electric cooperatives that charge the cheapest power rates from its MCOs. Not only this, but the cooperative under Engr. Licoben’s leadership has been active in ensuring power supply especially during typhoons which greatly helps the government in its emergency responses and communication efforts. Not even the strongest typhoon nor the present pandemic has stopped BENECO from its operations, but this ongoing leadership crisis in the electric cooperative is evidently affecting its services which is definitely affecting us, consumers, as well. We should not let this continue, and we aim for the quick resolution of this matter, and for peace – a core value of our beloved province of Benguet. Further, may we enjoin everyone to unite in prayer for BENECO and its employees.To the MCOs, we are in this together.