RESIDENTS of Jandayan island off Getafe town will enjoy the benefits of electrification soon. This after Administrator Edita Bueno of the National Electrification Administration (NEA), Rep. Erico Aumentado (2nd District, Bohol), and General Manager Carlos Itable of the Bohol 2 Electric Cooperative, Inc. signed a memorandum of agreement (MOA) defining their respective roles in the project. Under the MOA, NEA will provide at least P30 million while Aumentado will put up a counterpart of P16 million from his Priority Development Assistance Fund (PDAF). On the other hand, Boheco 2 will implement the project, including the procurement and installation of a submarine cable from the mainland to the island like the connection from Leyte to Bohol.

Aumentado told Itable in a recent meeting that he is set to release his counterpart for the project that will benefit barangays Jandayan Norte, Jandayan Sur and Handumon. The solon said energization will bring more economic activity to these barangays. Refrigerators and freezers will be put to good use in storing fishermen’s catch as well as keeping these fresh longer with ice. Not for mere luxury for a few islanders, but for the needs of residents of nearby islets as well, Aumentado justified the submarine cable before Energy Secretary Jose Rene Almendras. He explained that the Jandayan connection will also open up the islets of Alumar, Mahanay, Banacon, Jagoliao and Nasingin all also of Getafe town to their respective turns at electrification. This time however, their connection will be overhead, similar to that of Lapinig islet off the island town of President Garcia – also an Aumentado project.