CABANATUAN CITY – “Pa-charge,” “genset” appear to be the most common words for Novo Ecijanos, days after the province suffered massive brownouts when a number of electric posts fell as well as trees on power lines.
Free charging of electric gadget is being offered by huge businesses, political figures including those vying for various positions in the forthcoming village polls, and ordinary citizens alike.
“Parang may prayer meeting sa bawat area ng mall na may outlet,” a mallgoer said, referring to flocks of people sitting as they wait for charging to complete.
Others even bring their own extension cords to multiply the outlet capacity. But the service offered by the giant mall is also extended by lowly residents who can afford to purchase portable gensets.
“Mabuti nga kahit hindi pulitiko ay nagbibigay ng libreng pa-charge,” said Rosa Arenas of Barangay Cabu.
Gov. Aurelio Umali said electricity in the province would be partially restored in two weeks but complete restoration may happen in one month or more. Umali based his assumption on reports from different power distributors in the province.
This prompted him to push for the postponement of village polls set on Oct. 28. Umali, upon consultation with administrators of schools, colleges and universities in Nueva Ecija, declared on Tuesday suspension of classes in all levels both public and private “for the rest of the week.” Classes in Nueva Ecija will resume on Monday.
