The National Electrification Administration (NEA) urged Philippine electric cooperatives (ECs) to step up their role in boosting the rural economy through reliable electrification. The call came during the 2025 PowerXchange convention hosted by the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association (NRECA) in Atlanta.
NEA Administrator Antonio Mariano Almeda delivered the message on March 12 during a Filipino night event at the Georgia World Congress Center. Speaking to EC general managers and Philippine Rural Electric Cooperatives Association, Inc. (PHILRECA) officials, led by Atty. Janeene Depay-Colingan, he emphasized their potential impact.
“We have to put in our heart and mind that we are the gamechangers. You are the gamechangers,” Almeda said. “So please, let’s give it our best in doing what we are doing right now.”
Almeda framed ECs as key players in national development, suggesting that dependable electricity could fuel economic progress in rural areas. “The partnership of NEA and electric cooperatives should be at the front, back, and center of nation-building… The Philippines needs electric cooperatives,” he added.
He acknowledged the challenges, calling it a “tall order” due to budget limitations, but encouraged EC leaders to focus on their work while the NEA handles funding issues. “Do your jobs,” he told them, stressing the seriousness of their roles. “The present positions you’re occupying right now is no joke… We are here because we are advocating not only total electrification, but reliable sources of electricity.”
The NRECA convention brought together EC leaders worldwide to address shifts in the energy sector. Almeda, who led the Filipino delegation, hailed the event for its global perspective and hopes to apply those lessons to strengthen the Philippines’ rural electrification efforts.
With the NEA pushing electric cooperatives to drive economic progress, what will it take for rural electrification to reshape the Philippines—more funding, better technology, or stronger leadership? Share your thoughts below.
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