BAGUIO CITY (PIA) — The Benguet Electric Cooperative (Beneco) kicked off its 51st anniversary with an open house at the Gen. Pedro Dumol Hall, South Drive on Tuesday, Oct. 1, 2024.
With the theme “BENECO at 51: Synchronization with the Challenges of the Power Industry”, the Beneco gives back to its member consumer owners (MCOs) with the provision of various services during the open house.
The services include medical mission, blood donation, free eye checkups, free medical and dental consultations, legal consultations, and application for service connection consultations.
Free medicines, eyeglasses, and haircuts were also provided to eligible beneficiaries.
Melson Catade, one of the beneficiaries, availed of the free haircut and blood donation service program. According to him, he annually participates in the cooperative’s anniversary celebration and avails of their services.
“Sobrang laking [tulong] kasi imbes na gamitin mong pambayad sa doktor ng mata, at least nakalibre ka,” said Jules Maroc, another beneficiary, who availed of free eyeglasses and checkup.
According to Jeffered Monang, Open House Program Chairperson, the program is their way to help the locals and pay back the efforts of the MCOs for their continuous support towards the electric cooperative.
“Suportahan natin kung ano pang mga ginagawa ng BENECO. Hindi lang ‘yan nagsusuplay ng kuryente ng Baguio at Benguet, siyempre tumutulong din ‘yan sa lahat ng mga pangangailangan ng mga members consumers owners natin. Nagbibigay nga tayo ng mga libreng gamot at mga tulong tulad ng burial assistance at iba pa,” Monang emphasized.
Volunteers from different organizations such as the Philippine Red Cross – Baguio Chapter, Kabalikat Civicom, and Baguio Everlasting Lions Club are also present to provide support services.
Various activities are lined up as part of the month-long anniversary celebration including a trade fair showcasing the local products of the MCOs and BENECO employees, tree planting, Kapihan sa BENECO, recognition of BENECO service awardees, and sportsfest, among others.
Beneco is the implementer of the government’s country side energization thrust under the Sitio Energization Program in Baguio City and the province of Benguet. For 2024, it targets to energize about 20 barangays in Benguet. (JDP/DEG/Yira Bernardino, PIA CAR-PHINMA UPang Intern)
