Catanduanes is a step closer to achieving a stable and reliable power supply following the arrival of generator sets supplied by Isla Dagyab Energy Corporation under the second Emergency Power Supply Agreement (EPSA 2) conducted by the First Catanduanes Electric Cooperative, Inc. (FICELCO) on May 29,2026. The generator sets arrived in the province on 4 and 5 June 2026.
Acting on the directive of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. to resolve the power situation in Catanduanes, the DOE, together with the National Power Corporation (NPC) led by President Jericho Jonas B. Nograles and National Electrification Administration (NEA) Administrator Antonio Mariano Almeda, has been coordinating the urgent implementation of supply augmentation measures to stabilize electricity services in the province and bring relief to affected consumers.
Through its concerted efforts, the genset units under EPSA 2 are expected to deliver 8 megawatts (MW) of additional power to help address the province’s ongoing supply challenges and resolve rotational brownouts across Catanduanes once fully operational. All site preparations and ground works were completed in advance, allowing installation activities to begin immediately.
Technical teams from Isla Dagyab are already on-site where generator foundations, take-off structures, and fuel piping connected to the Fuel Oil Storage Tank have been fully installed and are ready for use. Testing and commissioning are scheduled 10-14 June 2026, with full commercial operation targeted by 15 June.
To further bridge the supply gap, NPC has stepped in as a temporary provider by relocating generator sets previously rented by Sunwest Water and Electric Co. Inc. (SUWECO) to the NPC Marinawa Compound as an interim solution while long-term supply arrangements are being finalized.
These units are expected to provide additional 6 MW of temporary supply. NPC is ready to do what is necessary to keep power flowing in Catanduanes while permanent solutions are being put in place,” said NPC President Jericho Jonas B. Nograles. “The energization of these generating units is an immediate intervention to help close the supply gap, reduce rotational brownouts, and provide the people of Catanduanes the reliable service they urgently need.
“These initiatives reflect the Marcos Administration’s clear directive to act swiftly and decisively to resolve power supply challenges and ensure that the people of Catanduanes have access to reliable electricity that powers their homes, businesses, and essential services,” said Energy Secretary Sharon S. Garin. “We extend our gratitude to NEA, NPC, and all stakeholders for their coordinated efforts. This undertaking demonstrates that unity and collective action are key to delivering the stable energy supply every Filipino deserves.”
The power supply challenges in Catanduanes stems from a combination of contractual constraints and supply disruptions. SUWECO’s long-term Power Supply Agreement relies largely on hydroelectric power, which becomes limited during dry seasons, while its planned expansion was not completed. The situation was further affected by the expiration of the 5 MW backup supply under EPSA 1 on 15 May 2026.
The arrival and activation of these additional power sources mark a critical step toward closing the province’s power deficit and building a more resilient energy system for the people of Catanduanes.
