City Council to scrutinize power firm's franchise renewal

CEBU, Philippines - The request of the Mactan Electric Company to renew its franchise may go through further scrutiny at the Lapu-Lapu City Council.

During its regular session, the City Council passed a resolution requesting the Association of Barangay Councils, through its president Jose Dungog, to conduct consultation in every barangay.

The consultation will focus to the experiences of the residents on the services given by MECO, the power distributor in the island of Mactan.

The City Council also directed the barangay captains to formulate questions to serve as basis on the city's decision on the approval or disapproval of the renewal of franchise of MECO.

The 25-year franchise of MECO to provide power to Mactan island expires October 2016.

The City Council said there is a need for the city government to examine the propriety of determining whether the city will still avail of MECO's services or look for other players to provide the vital service.

The resolution further said it is incumbent upon the officials of the city to determine from their constituents  concerns and issues with respect to the services of MECO.

The barangay captains and officials, according to the resolution, play an important role in determining the sentiments of the people regarding the services of MECO. — Jose P. Sollano (FREEMAN)