DBP-funded
mini-hydro plant to
provide electricity in Romblon
San Fernando, Romblon – The 900-kW Catingas
mini-hydro power plant was inaugurated by officials of state-owned
Development Bank of the Philippines (DBP) and local officials
of Romblon during simple ceremonies last March 4, 2010 in
this seaside town in Sibuyan Island, Romblon.
Using the vast potential of the Cantingas
River as a source of hydropower, the mini-hydro power plant
is expected to address the increasing demand for electricity
in the island of more than 50,000 residents. The project is
also in consonance with the bank’s thrust to support
new and renewable sources of energy that not only protect
the environment through reduced greenhouse gas emissions but
are also cheap and sustainable.
The Cantingas mini-hydro power plant will
enable the Romblon Electric Cooperative (ROMELCO) to supply
round-the-clock electricity to residents and business establishments
in the entire island of Sibuyan. In the past, the island’s
three municipalities -- San Fernando, Magdiwang and Cadijiocan
-- relied on two 600-kW diesel generators that could only
provide electricity for 18 hours.
DBP senior vice presidents Cresenciana Bundoc
and Brillo Reynes joined Romblon Governor Natalio Beltran
III and Rep. Eleandro Jesus Madrona in inaugurating the mini-hydro
power project.
According to Bundoc, the mini-hydro power
plant is a testament to DBP’s commitment to improving
the lives of Filipinos. On the other hand, Rep. Madrona said
that the provincial government of Romblon, together with ROMELCO,
is looking forward to tapping the mini-hydro power plant in
providing electricity to the other islands of the province.
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