In the recently concluded Visayas Warriors of Light Summit - Linemen Rodeo Competition held in Cebu, NEA Administrator Antonio Mariano Almeda recognized the contributions of linemen to the Rural Electrification Program.

The NEA Chief lauded their sacrifice and hard work in electrifying the remote areas of the country to spur socio-economic progress. "Kahit anong galing ng GM, kahit anong galing ng Board, kung wala kayong mga lineman na sumusuporta at nag-iimplement sa desisyon ng management, wala ang galing ng coop," the Administrator told the Warriors of Light.

In recognition of their service, Admin Almeda proposed a housing program for the linemen and other electric cooperative employees. "Panahon na upang tayo ay mag-isip kung paano magkakaroon ng pabahay para sa mga lineman at ibang empleyado ng coop. Kaya ngayon pa lang, inaatasan ko na si GM Jomoy na manguna sa pag-aaral," the Administrator said.

He tasked Central Visayas Electric Cooperatives Association (CEVECA) President Virgilio "Jomoy" Fortich, Jr. to spearhead the creation of the program, in coordination with the Office of the NEA Administrator. The NEA Chief also asked for the assistance and cooperation of the Philippine Rural Electric Cooperatives Association (PHILRECA).

"Dito sa Region VI, VII at VIII, uumpisahan ito as pilot areas para mabigyan natin ng pabahay ang isa't isa dito sa Visayas. Marami po tayong gustong gawin – hindi lang sa ikabubuti ng kooperatiba, kundi pati sa ikabubuti ng bawat isa na nagtatrabaho sa kooperatiba," he added. ###