ASEP to pilot in two far-flung sitios in Davao Occidental
The European Union (EU) continually extends its aid to the country through the Access to Sustainable Energy Programme (ASEP), an undertaking between the EU and the Department of Energy (DOE).
Sometime in November 2017, the ASEP Team led by Ms. Laurie B. Navarro-ASEP Technical Assistance National Expert and Ms. Alicia de Guzman – OIC for DOE – EPIMB (Electric Power Industry Management Bureau) appeared before the DASURECO management and officers to discuss the opportunities of the program especially on the conduct of the project feasibility studies and site inspection.
The pilot project sites in Sitio New Mabuhay in Barangay Little Baguio, Malita, Davao Occidental and Sitio Mahayag in Barangay Baluntaya, Don Marcelino, Davao Occidental were considered ideal after months of data gathering, baseline survey, and focus group discussions with the EU, DOE, ASEP Team, NEA, EC, LGUs in the community.

On February 27, 2018, the ASEP group together with Dr. Ernie Terrado – ASEP Key Expert, Mr. Sam Andrews — speaker for the technical and financial impact of the projects, DOE representatives led by Ms. Alicia de Guzman, and Ms. Laurie B. Navarro-ASEP Technical Assistance National Expert discussed before the DASURECO management and officers headed by Engr. Godofredo N. Guya – the General Manager and Mr. Rodrigo B. Sacedor – the Board President respectively the productive uses of renewable energy technologies in the chosen sitios and the roles and responsibilities of each agency/office in the implementation of the projects.

“The EC is the key in the success of these pilot projects…” said Dr. Terrado.

The opportunity for another means of community development was accepted by DASURECO as it not only gives light to the community but also provides them income augmentation through a highly advanced method of abaca and corn crop processing in Sitio New Mabuhay and Sitio Mahayag respectively.
Also present were Mr. Richard Flores-NEA representative, Mr. Ally P. Fernandez – representative from LGU-Don Marcelino, Mr. Ferdinand D. San – Barangay Captain of Little Baguio, Malita, Mr. Amador D. Cano – Barangay Captain of Baluntaya, Don Marcelino, and the Barangay Councilors of each barangay unit.
With EU’s grant, the Philippine Government’s aim of total electrification for so long will gradually be met by means of renewable energy whilst promoting energy efficiency.