In a collective effort to enhance safety and foster meaningful collaboration, SN Aboitiz Power-Benguet (SNAP-Benguet), the National Power Corporation (NPC), and the Power Sector Assets and Liabilities Management Corporation (PSALM) conducted the annual public information drives (PIDs) on the Ambuklao and Binga Dams and Reservoir Operations from June 4 to 6, 2024.
Residents from the barangays of Ambuklao, Dalupirip, and Tinongdan, which host the Ambuklao and Binga hydro plants, participated in these sessions. Around 400 community members gained insights into dam operations and safety measures.
NPC and PSALM, the dam owners, provided briefings on flood forecasting, warning systems, and dam safety programs. Additionally, the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) discussed hydro-meteorological hazards. The Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Offices (MDRRMO) of Bokod and Itogon presented their contingency plans, while SNAP-Benguet covered protocols for normal dam operations, the Emergency Protocol/Emergency Action Plan (EAP), and an overview of the company’s river safety program.
During the PIDs, SNAP also launched the health and safety campaign called ALWAD (Ang Ligtas at Wastong Aksyon sa Paligid ng Dam). This unified health and safety information campaign aims to raise community awareness and encourage safe practices around the dam vicinities. ALWAD emphasizes prevention, preparedness, and appropriate responses to safety and emergency situations related to dams, waterways, and watersheds.
SNAP-Benguet is committed to prioritizing safety in its operations. By collaborating with its partners, the company is working to build a resilient community, equipping residents with the knowledge, skills, and resources needed to prevent and respond to natural disasters.
SNAP-Benguet, NPC, and PSALM are part of a technical working group dedicated to ensuring the safe and reliable operation of the Ambuklao and Binga dams. While the dams remain government-owned, the hydropower plants are operated by SNAP-Benguet.
