In a significant boost to local development, FDC Misamis Power Corporation has successfully transferred more than ₱24 million in financial benefits to its host communities in Misamis Oriental. The turnover, which took place recently, is part of the company's compliance with the Department of Energy's ER 1-94 Program.
Funds Earmarked for Community Development
The substantial financial infusion was formally handed over to two key recipients. The Provincial Government of Misamis Oriental, represented by Provincial Treasurer Ronald Violon, received the lion's share of the allocation. Meanwhile, the host barangays of Tambobong and Balacanas in the Municipality of Villanueva also received their portions, represented by Barangay Captains Regene Ello and Nila Pagaling, respectively.
Analiza Miso, the Corporate Communications, Sustainability, and External Affairs Manager for FDC Misamis, led the company's team during the turnover ceremonies. The released funds are specifically designated to support critical initiatives across several key areas mandated by the program.
- Electrification projects to improve power access and reliability.
- Livelihood development programs to stimulate local economies.
- Environmental management and reforestation efforts.
- General local government support to enhance public services.
A Commitment to Shared Growth and Compliance
Juan Eugenio Roxas, President and CEO of FDC Misamis, emphasized that the timely release of these funds is a core responsibility. "Ensuring the timely release of ER 1-94 funds is part of our responsibility as a power generation company and as a partner of our host communities," Roxas stated. He added that the company's commitment extends beyond mere compliance, aiming to ensure that reliable power generation translates into meaningful and sustainable local development.
This latest disbursement reinforces FDC Misamis's consistent track record of adhering to the ER 1-94 guidelines. The program requires power generation companies to allocate a share of their revenue, specifically one centavo per kilowatt-hour generated, to benefit their host communities.
How the ER 1-94 Program Works
The ER 1-94 fund is meticulously structured into three dedicated components to address diverse community needs:
- Electrification Fund (EF): For energy-related projects.
- Development and Livelihood Fund (DLF): For socio-economic programs.
- Reforestation, Watershed Management, Health, and Environment Enhancement Fund (RWMHEEF): For ecological and health initiatives.
Before accessing the funds, host local government units must submit a detailed Annual Work and Financial Plan (AWFP) to the Department of Energy for approval, ensuring projects align with the program's goals. Following project implementation, a liquidation report must be submitted to the Commission on Audit for transparency and accountability.
It is important to note that these ER 1-94 funds are separate from FDC Misamis's other corporate social responsibility and social development initiatives, representing a mandated financial share for the community.
Powering Mindanao and Its Communities
FDC Misamis operates a 405-megawatt baseload power plant in Villanueva, Misamis Oriental. Since commencing commercial operations in 2016, the facility has been a cornerstone in stabilizing the Mindanao grid, providing reliable and affordable electricity to the region. The company underscores its dual mission: to be a dependable power provider and an active partner in the progress of the communities that host its operations.
