The management and board of Central Negros Electric Cooperative (CENECO) have come under fire from consumers and militant groups for their sudden decision to sign a Joint Venture Agreement (JVA) with Primelectric Holdings Inc. The public disclosure of this signing, planned for today, June 3rd, was only made known to the public late last night.

Noli Rosales, spokesperson for Bayan Negros, strongly condemned the move, stating “Like thieves in the night, the board of directors and management of CENECO have blindsided and betrayed the consumers with their devious schemes. Shame on them for blatantly neglecting the interests of the people they are supposed to serve.”

During the Annual General Membership Assembly (AGMA) of CENECO last May 24, the board of directors and management were also criticized for their allegedly attempting to discreetly introduce the JVA. The move was blocked by Atty. Cesar Belario, citing procedural issues.

Bayan Negros also warns against the rushed and non-inclusive plebiscite scheduled for June 24 and 25, and July 1 and 2. “The plebiscite appears to be a mere formality, lacking genuine consultation and meaningful dialogue,” Rosales explained.

This morning, Stephen Paduano of Abang Lingkod Party-list has called on Barangay captains and officials in Bacolod in an attempt to show approval from grassroots community. Rosales, however, say this “lacks legitimates and only exposes its true undemocratic nature.”

“Supporting this partnership without weighing the long-term implications is deeply concerning. We implore these barangay officials to reflect on the wider ramifications and prioritize the collective interests of the community over immediate and personal gains,” Rosales said.

Bayan Negros  asserts that this move essentially leads to the privatization of CENECO. They argue that “when essential services like electricity are placed in the hands of profit-seeking entities, the interests of the people are often sacrificed on the altar of corporate greed. Consumers face the risk of skyrocketing electricity prices, reduced accountability, and compromised quality of service.”

Bayan Negros demands an immediate halt to the JVA signing process and urges the CENECO board of directors and management to engage in genuine and inclusive dialogue with the consumers.

“The fight is not yet over. The voice of the consumers is decisive. Through collective action, we can still hold the management and board of directors accountable for being traitorous to the interests of the consumers. Now is the time for the thousands of member-consumers to unite and fight back,” Rosales concluded.