More than 2,100 households in the island barangays of Tambaliza, Taloto-an, Macatunao, and Naborot in the towns of Concepcion and San Dionisio now have access to round-the-clock electricity following the completion and energization of the P150-million Concepcion–Tago–Tambaliza–Naborot Interconnection Overhead Line Extension Project of the Iloilo Electric Cooperative III (ILECO III).

The project was funded by the National Electrification Administration (NEA) through the Department of Energy’s (DOE) Total Electrification Program.

It connects the islands of Tago, Tambaliza, Naborot, Bago Ese, and Botlog to the mainland distribution grid, replacing decades of limited and intermittent electricity service with a more stable and reliable power supply.

For many residents, the project marks a significant improvement in their daily lives. Reliable electricity is expected to benefit households, schools, health facilities, and small businesses while reducing dependence on limited power sources.

In a Facebook post, ILECO III general manager Atty. James G. Balsomo II described the project’s completion as the fulfillment of a long-awaited dream for the island communities.

He said the energization of the islands represents more than the installation of power lines, as it opens new opportunities for development and improves the quality of life of residents.

Balsomo said stable electricity would help boost local economic activity, support livelihood opportunities, improve access to education and healthcare, strengthen communication services, and encourage investments in the beneficiary communities.

The general manager also expressed gratitude to the DOE, NEA, national and local government officials, barangay leaders, stakeholders, lot donors, and residents whose cooperation and support made the project possible.

The inter-island electrification project is among ILECO III’s largest rural infrastructure investments and part of the government’s continuing effort to achieve total rural electrification, particularly in geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas.

Aside from providing continuous electricity, the project is also expected to improve the delivery of basic government services, enhance public safety, and create better opportunities for tourism, fisheries, microenterprises, and other income-generating activities.Pia Maleriado, WVSU-COC intern/IMT