Geothermal power firm donates P4.2 M to DOH

The Energy Development Corp. (EDC), operator of the 140-megawatt Bacon-Manito Geothermal Plant, has donated P4.2 million to the Department of Health (DOH) Bicol to fund the expansion and refurbishment of laboratories that would enhance its mass testing capabilities.

France Loyola, EDC public relations specialist, said the donation that was given on Sept. 23 was part of the power firm’s commitment to helping its partner communities.

Engr. Liberato S. Virata, EDC senior vice president and officer-in-charge of the facilities, operations, and maintenance group, said they put a great premium on community development and resiliency.

“I have seen what we can accomplish by working hand in hand with the local government and I look forward to the beginning of a more dynamic partnership with DOH and other key agencies in ensuring that the people are healthy and safe,” Virata said.

Dr. Ernie Vera, DOH Bicol regional director, said the expansion and refurbishment of the DOH laboratories would ramp up the region’s testing capabilities and help the department gather the necessary information to find ways to further “flatten the curve” and manage the pandemic in Bicol.

“Malaking bagay ang partnership namin with EDC in controlling the spread of Covid-19 by increasing our testing capacity. We believe this partnership will be a best practice for us in government,” Vera said, noting that DOH Bicol is the first regional agency to have partnered with a private organization.

The EDC operates the 140-megawatt (MW) Bacon-Manito Geothermal Plant that supplies electricity to the Luzon grid.

It is the country’s largest vertically integrated geothermal developer, supplying 1,457.8 MW of clean and renewable energy.

The EDC said it has sent more than P2.5 million worth of in-kind donations and support to local government units amid the pandemic since last April. (PNA)