ANECOโs 47th AGMA: Empowering Communities Beyond Power
๐๐จ๐ง๐จ๐๐ก ๐๐๐ง๐ฌ, ๐๐๐ฅ๐๐๐โ The Agusan del Norte Electric Cooperative, Inc. (ANECO) marked a historic milestone with the successful conduct of its 47th Annual General Membership Assembly (AGMA) on June 14, 2025. Guided by the transformative theme โ๐ฉ๐๐๐๐๐ ๐ท๐๐๐๐: ๐ฌ๐๐๐๐๐๐๐ ๐ช๐๐๐๐๐๐๐๐๐๐๐ ๐ฌ๐๐๐๐๐๐๐๐๐ ๐ช๐๐๐๐๐๐๐๐๐๐, ๐ช๐๐๐๐๐๐๐ ๐ณ๐๐๐๐,โ this yearโs AGMA stood out as a vibrant, multi-venue celebration of unity, transparency, and community engagement across the cooperativeโs wide service area.
Breaking from tradition, the assembly was held simultaneously in several strategic locations to accommodate the active participation of thousands of member-consumer-owners (MCOs). These included the Father Saturnino Urios University Gymnasium for Butuan City and Las Nieves, the Caraga State University Gymnasium in Cabadbaran City for Branch 1, and the J.P. Satorre Gymnasium in Buenavista for Branch 2. This inclusive format enabled a greater number of members to join the proceedings, reinforcing ANECOโs deep-rooted commitment to accessible and participatory governance.
The opening ceremonies, livestreamed to all venues, created a shared atmosphere of pride and solidarity. The program commenced with the National Anthem and Invocation, followed by powerful renditions of the ANECO and NEA Hymns performed by the ANECO Chorale. A ceremonial Parade of Flags per district proudly highlighted the cooperativeโs extensive reach and community representation.
Director Walter A. Butao, Vice President for External Affairs, delivered a warm and inclusive Welcome Address. He was followed by Director Romeo J. Gumadlas, President of the Board of Directors, who inspired attendees with his Opening Message emphasizing the indispensable role of MCOs in driving sustainable, community-based development.
The AGMA garnered resounding support from key leaders and stakeholders. Messages of solidarity and support were delivered by Hon. Ronnie Vicente C. Lagnada, Mayor of Butuan City, Hon. Ma. Angelica Rosedell M. Amante, Governor of Agusan del Norte, and Hon. Jose โJoboyโ S. Aquino II, 1st District Congressman, represented by Atty. William Christian P. Dela Cruz, Hon. Sergio C. Dagoog, APEC Party-list Representative and staunch advocate for the rural electrification movement, also addressed the assembly. A pre-recorded keynote message by Adm. Antonio Mariano C. Almeda, Administrator of the National Electrification Administration (NEA), offered strategic insights into national electrification goals and the vital role of electric cooperatives in shaping an inclusive energy future.
In recognition of exemplary service and support, ANECO presented Plaques of Recognition to outstanding local officials, valued development partners, and the top ten prompt-paying contestable customers of 2024. These awards underscored the spirit of collaboration that fuels ANECOโs sustained success.
A defining highlight of the event was the Ceremonial Oath-Taking of the Newly Elected Members of the Board of Directors, administered by Atty. Jerold Joromat, Prosecution Attorney, Office of the City Prosecutor. Re-elected and newly inducted directorsโincluding President Director Romeo J. Gumadlas, Director Manuelito C. Suan (Northeast Butuan), Director Norberto M. Ablen (Las Nieves), Director Jake Fritz M. Angay (Santiago), Director Tito A. Bebis (Southeast Butuan), and Director Rodolfo L. Ranoco (Southwest Butuan)โpledged to uphold the cooperativeโs mission and values with renewed dedication.
The formal proceedings transitioned into the core cooperative business segment. Reports were presented by Director Romeo J. Gumadlas (Presidentโs Report), General Manager Engr. Darwin T. Daymiel (Management Report) and the District 5 Representative (Treasurerโs Report). CCPRO Manager Rhodora O. Lim confirmed the quorum, while Director Norberto M. Ablen affirmed due notice and distribution of meeting materials. These transparent, detailed reports reaffirmed ANECOโs operational strength, financial integrity, and strategic direction.
Adding a festive and participatory element to the assembly, MCOs actively engaged in an open forum, where questions and feedback were welcomed by the cooperativeโs leadership. Excitement peaked during trivia sessions and generous cash giveaways sponsored by Butuan City Mayor Hon. Ronnie Vicente Lagnada and ANECOโs management team.
The program culminated in a thrilling raffle draw, where participants took home various prizesโincluding appliances and, in a show-stopping finale, three brand-new motorcycles. The cheers and energy that filled every venue reflected the cooperativeโs deep connection with its members and the celebratory spirit of the day.
ANECOโs 47th AGMA was more than an institutional gatheringโit was a powerful reaffirmation of its identity as a non-stock, non-profit cooperative built on service, integrity, and shared progress. As ANECO continues to light homes and transform lives, it remains committed to going beyond power, fueling the hopes, growth, and resilience of every community it serves.