By Jujemay G. Awit

After recurring brownouts, the Provincial Board (PB) has asked concerned officials to discuss the power supply situation before the regular PB session on Monday.

PB Member Arleigh Sitoy invited Department of Energy Regional Director Antonio Labios, National Power Corp. Regional Head Eduardo Eroy and Visayan Electric Company spokesperson Ethel Natera, through a resolution.

The PB approved it during last Monday's session.

"Of late, the Province of Cebu experienced a recurrence of unscheduled brownouts...Power outages will pose a disincentive to both domestic and foreign investors and to local business," the resolution read.

Business owners have already aired their gripes against the recurring power cuts.

"The continued progress and development of the Province of Cebu will be stymied unless problems in power supply are addressed," said Sitoy in the resolution he penned.

Reliable
The board believes that since power is a problem not just in government but in the private sector as well, it is but timely that resource persons are invited to shed light on the power situation in the province.

"This (invitation) is premised on the concern that a reliable, quality and secure power supply in this premiere province is imperative to its development and is an essential element in maintaining its reputation as the country's most attractive destination for direct foreign investment and tourists."

Natera is no stranger to the Cebu PB, as she was also invited by the board during the election season to discuss power supply at the time.

The Province has taken part in a program that compensates large power consumers who rely on their generators, instead of on the region's power grid, when supply runs short.

Power interruptions not only hamper work in offices, factories and establishments in Cebu, but also interfere with the reliability of distributing its water supply.