In support of President Joseph Estrada ™s ERAP SA MAHIRAP Program, the Department of Energy has launched the Accelerated Barangay Electrification Program (ABEP). Two of the programs to be undertaken as part of the ABEP are the electrification program by the IPP ™s in the unenergized barangays in provinces hosting IPP ™s and the Adopt a Barangay Scheme. These programs will be a parallel undertaking with the DOE ™s ERAP program and will be separate from the regular electrification program of the National Electrification Administration (NEA).

These programs are an integrated effort of the energy sector to support its goal of 90% barangay-level electrification by 2004.

The objectives of the programs are the following:

General: To contribute in the improvement of the quality of life of the Filipinos especially those in the rural areas by providing them adequate and sustainable energy services through energization of their respective barangays.

Specific:

1.         To accelerate the energization, either through conventional or new and renewable energy sources (NRES) of all target barangays through the direct participation and involvement of IPPs and private sponsors in the rural electrification program;

2.         To enhance the partnership of the government with the private sector, non-government organizations, civic organizations, business communities, foreign embassies/institutions, electric cooperatives (ECs), electric distribution utilities and the IPPs:

3.         To help boost local agriculture, commerce and other economic activities in the target areas; and

4.         To attain 90% barangay-level electrification by year 2004.

The Team shall be assisted by a technical secretariat composed of members from the member agencies and headed by NEA. In the performance of its functions, the Team may at any time request the assistance or support of any units in DOE, NEA, NPC, PNOC.

The Team shall report directly to the DOE Secretary and shall closely coordinate with the Task Force on Acceleration of Barangay Electrification Program.

The funds required for the operation of the Team shall be taken from each individual agency budget.

This Order shall take effect immediately.

Adopted: 19 Jan. 2000

(SGD.) M.V. TIAOQUI
Secretary