BILECO held its 29th Annual General Membership Assembly (AGMA) meeting on November 26, 2016 at the Cabucgayan Gym in Magbangon, Cabucgayan.

This year’s event was anchored on the theme “Kabag-uhan ug Kalambuan – sa 33 Malauman ang Katumanan,” which aptly underscores the Coop’s optimism towards a better change through organizational and operational reforms.

Prof. Rowaldo A. Del Mundo, UP professor and guest speaker of the event, discussed with the members the operation of an electric distribution utility, its strengths, weaknesses and scope, and reminded them on their responsibilities and obligations to the Coop as members. Cong. Rogelio J. Espina also graced the occasion spearheading the formal switch-on and energization of the 78 sitios under NEA Sitio Electrification Program. He commended BILECO for its commitment to service through electrification to its fellow Biliranons.

A total of 3,103 members have attended the gathering equivalent to 10.68% of the total membership.

ISSUE ON CONVERSION
One of the agenda discussed during the plenary was the conversion issue pursuant to Republic Act No. 10531.

The law provides option for ECs to either remain as non-stock, non-profit under NEA, convert into a stock cooperative under CDA or convert into a stock corporation under SEC.

Several months prior to the annual assembly, series of district meetings were conducted in all districts in order to educate the members of the advantages and disadvantages of conversion. Likewise, the Coop also sought support from the local governments, barangay officials and other stakeholders by keeping them involved and informed on the matter.

The certificate of membership decision revealed that the general assembly favored that BILECO remains status quo under NEA considering that it is the most beneficial for the Coop.

The result of the referendum will take effect for the next 10 years from the date of its adoption.