Power is set to reach more remote communities in Negros Occidental as the Municipality of Toboso, in partnership with the University of St. La Salle through the College of Engineering, rolls out a 2.8-million upgrade of the Vergara–Magtuod Development Cooperative (VEMADECO) Micro-Hydropower Plant in Barangay Bug-ang.
Built in 2008, the community-based renewable energy facility currently provides electricity to nearly 200 households across two far-flung communities in Toboso. The upgrade aims to improve the plant’s reliability and capacity, strengthening access to sustainable energy in underserved communities.
The USLS College of Engineering led the technical study, provided practical recommendations, and prepared the program of works to guide the use of the 2.8-million allocation, enhancing the efficiency and reach of the micro-hydropower plant.
“I commend our faculty from the College of Engineering for their dedication and commitment to initiatives like this that uplift our community. This work truly embodies the heart of our University’s mission,” said USLS College of Engineering Dean Maria J-Len Jonco-Mesias.
Toboso Mayor Richard Jaojoco highlighted the importance of maintaining the facility, noting that it is the only remaining micro-hydropower plant of its kind in the province.
“It would be a waste if we fail to sustain the only remaining hydropower facility in the province. We can see that there is still a lot of potential, and it would be unfortunate if it were not continued. We’ve had this since 2008,” Jaojoco said.
USLS continues to strengthen its commitment to sustainability, community engagement, and applied learning, using academic expertise to support local development and improve access to reliable energy.