BRIEF HISTORY
Before SORECO II, households in Sorsogon used kerosene and oil lamps for lighting. Modesto Herrera introduced the first electric service in Sorsogon with a small gasoline-fed generator. After Herrera’s family moved to Metro Manila, the Espiritu family of Cavite took over operations.​
Founding and Initial Expansion (1977-1979)
SORECO II was organized on April 14, 1977, and granted a franchise by NEA. After receiving its franchise, SORECO II rapidly expanded electrical services. It assumed operations from the defunct Sorsogon Electric Plant and started serving 2,595 consumers in 17 barangays on May 21, 1977, with an initial capital of P16 million. Between 1977 and 1979, it energized multiple municipalities, including Bacon, Gubat, Prieto Diaz, Barcelona, Castilla, Pilar, and Donsol, overcoming challenging terrains.
Organizational Development (1980-1990)
In 1980, SORECO II built its headquarters and third substation. Typhoons in 1987 caused major damage to the system, but by 1992, it earned the "Most Outstanding Region V Rural Electric Cooperative" award. The cooperative transitioned to a stock cooperative in the 1990s with the passage of RA 6938 and RA 6939.
Conversion to Stock Cooperative (1996)
Prompted by cooperative movement milestones and new legislation, SORECO II transformed into a stock cooperative in 1996. This change allowed member-consumers to become shareholders and benefit directly from the cooperative's financial performance.
Operational Challenges (1998-2003)
In the late 1990s, SORECO II faced internal disputes, financial issues, and a sharp decline in collection efficiency, but recovery measures were put in place starting in 2000. By 2002, the cooperative had improved operations with a new General Manager, Mr. Ramonito J. Carranza. In 2003, a 180-Day Rehabilitation Program was implemented, and SORECO II regained stability. The cooperative also reached 100% barangay electrification. In 2006, after Typhoons Milenyo and Reming devastated the area, SORECO II restored power quickly.
Recovery and Restructuring (2003-2010)
SORECO II implemented various recovery strategies, including anti-pilferage programs, cost-cutting measures, and management changes. The cooperative focused on improving technical, financial, and administrative aspects. By 2008, Atty. Owen B. Amor was appointed General Manager, overseeing the rehabilitation of the Cawayan Hydro Electric Plant (CHEP II). In 2009, after another leadership change, Atty. Percival G. Alvarez took over as General Manager.
Recent Power Supply (2010-Present)
SORECO II entered into a power supply agreement with San Miguel Energy Corporation (SMEC) in 2010, which lasted until 2012 when GN Power Mariveles Energy Center became its energy supplier.
