Hedcor recognizes NCIP role to address Bakun concerns

On June 7, 2021, the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples in the Cordillera Administrative Region (NCIP-CAR) issued a Notice of Violation (NOV) covering Hedcor’s three (3) run-of-river hydropower plants in Bakun, Benguet.

The NOV came after the NCIP-CAR called for a community assembly in Bakun last June 1, which was attended by some NCIP commissioners, the NCIP Regional Director Marlon Bosantog, IP leaders, LGU officials, and members of the IP communities.

“We recognise the important role of the NCIP to ensure the sentiments of the Bakun   IPs are heard and addressed. We believe that NCIP plays a vital role in addressing these concerns, and we shall continue to reach out to and work with NCIP and our Bakun community leaders to arrive at a resolution,” said Hedcor’s Vice President for Corporate Services Noreen Vicencio.

“We believe that we have been compliant with all the needed requirements during the course of the FPIC application process. Regardless, we  will address any deficiencies that are raised, and comply with them accordingly.” Vicencio furthered.

Hedcor’s Lower Labay Hydro, FLS Hydro, and Lon-oy Hydro generate a total capacity of 12.4 megawatts of clean and renewable energy to the Luzon grid.  It delivers much needed power supply to the public, especially as we deal with scarcity in power supply.  Stable power is also important to support the government’s efforts to fight the global health crisis through an effective COVID-19 vaccine rollout.

With collaboration and reasonable dialogue, Hedcor looks toward the resolution of these issues in the soonest possible time. ###