By Dolly Yasa
BACOLOD CITY—The Negros Electric and Power Corporation (NEPC), also known as Negros Power, held its first Lineman’s Day at the Paglaum Sports Complex in Bacolod City on Saturday, November 23, 2024.
The event, led by NEPC President and CEO Roel Castro, served as a tribute to the company’s linemen, who Castro described as the “unsung heroes” of the energy sector.
“This is our way of recognizing the dedication and hard work of our linemen, and this will be an annual celebration for them,” Castro said during his speech.
The celebration featured a dance competition, where lineman groups showcased their dancing talents.
The SLRP team emerged as the champion, followed by Eagle Claw as the first runner-up, RJH as the second runner-up, and N3B as the third runner-up.
Special awards included Performer of the Year, won by Jerusalem Nando (N3B); Mr. Suave, awarded to Stephen (SLRP); and Safety Darling of the Crowd, given to Pepe Brigoli.
Attendees also enjoyed a raffle with numerous prizes, adding excitement to the event.
A poignant moment of the celebration was the tribute to the late lineman Jessie James Torremocha, who died in the line of duty on September 15, 2024.
Torremocha fell from a tree while conducting a clearing operation along Circumferential Road in Barangay Villamonte, Bacolod City.
He succumbed to internal injuries after being comatose for two days.
Castro announced that future editions of Lineman’s Day will be named in Torremocha’s honor.
“This activity is dedicated to our linemen and field personnel to show how important they are, not only to the company but to the consumers as well,” Castro told Daily Guardian. “We will name it after Jessie James in honor of his sacrifice. When everyone was bashing us, these heroes were out there risking their lives for service.”
Negros Power aims to make Lineman’s Day an annual event to recognize the vital role of linemen in maintaining and repairing power facilities, especially during calamities.
The event highlighted the company’s appreciation for its employees while honoring their contributions to the community.