Last December 23, the Cooperative was very fortunate to celebrate its Christmas Party together with the Father of Electrification, Retired General Pedro G. Dumol. We were also honored to include Governor Enrique "Tet" Garcia and Hon. Albert "Abet" S. Garcia, Congressman of 2nd District of Bataan in the lists of our distinguished guests. The hosts for the said occasion were the very entertaining trio of Tholits, Marvin and Kelly.

Gen. Dumol, consultant from CORD, spoke about his high expectations for PENELCO. He truly agreed with this year's theme that PENELCO is still rising in the future. According to their studies, the Coop, whose electricity rate is Php 2.00 lower than MERALCO, is expected to double its capacity in the coming years. In the advent that PENELCO reached Php 1 Billion sales revenue this year, he projected that by 2005 our sales will reach Php 1.5 Billion.
He also clarified the importance of the Electric Utility being a Non-Stock Cooperative rather than a Stock Cooperative. According to him, it is mandatory for the Stock Cooperative to distribute dividends to members, which can be charged as additional rates to the consumers. Also, whenever a distribution line, especially in far-flung areas, is determined to be unprofitable, the Board of a Stock Coop has a prerogative to discontinue the electric service to that vicinity. For him, the mandate of nationwide electrification will only be accomplished through a Non-Stock Electric Cooperative, which is his brainchild since the beginning.

Adding glitter to the event was the presence of the father and son tandem of our very own Governor Tet Garcia and Congressman Abet Garcia. Imagine, two of the highly regarded men of Bataan joining PENELCO's Christmas Party. It's overwhelming to hear from our dear Governor his utmost support to the Cooperative. And that's not all, our debonair Congressman gave a refreshing speech that warmed the heart of everyone. They delighted us with gifts they generously distributed.

The main event for the evening was the dance competition wherein six groups divided according to age groups danced to the tune of year 2000 to 2004 hits. As the smoke of the fierce battle subside, Pink Team emerged as the Champion followed by Orange and Blue Team, respectively.

Capping the night was the Raffle Draw wherein employees got a chance to win household appliances courtesy of some of the Coop suppliers. You can see the joy on their faces as they were able to take home their winnings for the holidays.

Spearheading the preparation for this occasion was the Christmas Party Committee Chairwoman, Ms. Inah Parayno. The efforts made by the Committee truly deserved a round of applause. Also, worth acknowledging were the all-out support given by Engr. Loreto A. Marcelino, Resident General Manager, and the Board of Directors. 

As we face the year 2005, may God continue to shower His blessings upon the PENELCO family and its member-consumers. Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to All!!! (by Lovely C.)