BAGUIO CITY – In a significant development for Benguet Electric Cooperative (BENECO), the National Electrification Administration (NEA) has confirmed the appointment of Engr. Melchor S. Licoben as the General Manager.
NEA Administrator Antonio Almeda communicated this confirmation in a letter dated November 21, 2023, addressed to Task Force BENECO Chairperson Steve Cating.
The confirmation was based on NEA’s endorsement of the Task Force’s Board Resolution 2023-245, designating Engr. Licoben as the General Manager under a Performance Management Contract (PMC) for a one-year term spanning from November 7, 2023, to November 6, 2024.
NEA will conduct an evaluation of Licoben’s performance after the contract’s completion.
Engr. Licoben’s comprehensive PMC, reflecting his accomplishments, was submitted to NEA on November 14, 2023, solidifying his credentials for the role.
Interim Board Member Elma Donaal expressed delight at NEA’s swift action, stating, “We are all happy with the NEA confirmation of our resolution appointing GM Mel (Licoben). From the very beginning, he has been my choice because he was the most articulate. We are also grateful for the swift actions of Admin Almeda. He really meant well.”
Pastor Rodolfo De Guia, another member of Task Force BENECO, affirmed the rigorous vetting process that led to Licoben’s recommendation and subsequent appointment, stating, “The vetting process was followed, the NEA recommended him being the lone applicant who hurdled the strict vetting process, and we appointed him.”
De Guia highlighted the importance of NEA’s confirmation, stating, “We can all now do all our official functions, especially the GM, with NEA’s confirmation.”
In accordance with customary practices, NEA Administrator Almeda will conduct an official ceremonial installation for Licoben, marking his official assumption of duties as GM, a matter that will be discussed in the next board meeting, as shared by De Guia.
The resolution, confirmed by NEA, reflected the Task Force’s unwavering confidence in Licoben’s qualifications, stating, “The Task Force believes and agrees that Engr. Melchor S. Licoben is irrefutably qualified to assume the position of a general manager of BENECO in view of his vast experience and familiarity with the operations of BENECO.”
Interim Board Chairperson Steve Cating voiced the Board’s unanimous support, expressing confidence in Licoben’s leadership.
“The interim BOD fully supports the NEA confirmation of Engr. Licoben as the GM of BENECO. We are confident that GM Licoben has the proper tools to lead BENECO in the future. These tools are strong balance sheet, a dedicated workforce, and the support of the BENECO shareholders. BENECO is in good hands,” Cating said.
Echoing this sentiment, Atty. George Dumawing, another member of the Interim Board, emphasized the significance of NEA’s confirmation in rebuilding trust among stakeholders.
“The confirmation by NEA is a vindication on his part and a validation of the member consumer owners clamor for his appointment. This time NEA has performed its regulatory function with the welfare of the EC in mind. This should restore the mutual trust and goodwill that all stakeholders have for one another. From hereon the MCOs are assured of the usual BENECO service par excellence,” Dumawing said.
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