Following the recent Magnitude 7.8 earthquake that struck Mindanao, the Department of Energy (DOE), through its Task Force on Energy Resiliency, is working around the clock alongside power sector stakeholders to safely and efficiently restore generating capacity to the grid.
Comprehensive damage assessments and repair activities are actively underway across all impacted power generation facilities.
While significant progress has been made, several major units remain offline as engineering teams conduct rigorous safety inspections and testing:
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Sarangani Energy Corporation (SEC): Unit 1 (118.5 MW) has been successfully synchronized back to the grid. Unit 2 (118.5 MW) remains offline under close monitoring and ongoing restoration activities.
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SMC Malita Coal Plant: Both Unit 1 and Unit 2 (150 MW each) are currently offline. Intensive restoration efforts are underway, with a target restoration date set for June 17, 2026.
As grid capacity is progressively recovered, the DOE and local distributors are strictly prioritizing power routing to essential services and critical community infrastructure. Immediate priority is being given to:
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Hospitals and medical facilities
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Evacuation centers
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Water pumping and distribution systems
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Telecommunication networks and transmission towers
The DOE emphasizes that while expediting grid restoration is an urgent priority, the absolute safety of the ground personnel conducting hazardous inspections, high-voltage repairs, and testing remains paramount.
The Task Force on Energy Resiliency continues to maintain a localized, real-time coordination center with industry stakeholders to facilitate a safe, timely, and reliable return to normal operations, supporting affected Mindanao communities in their recovery efforts.
