The Department of Energy (DOE), in coordination with the National Electrification Administration (NEA) and the National Power Corporation (NPC), has mobilized rapid response teams to assess energy infrastructure and advance power restoration efforts following the Magnitude 7.8 earthquake that affected Southern Mindanao and neighboring areas today.
Based on initial reports, power interruptions are being experienced in several areas, particularly within the franchise areas of the South Cotabato II Electric Cooperative (SOCOTECO II), South Cotabato I Electric Cooperative (SOCOTECO I), Sultan Kudarat Electric Cooperative (SUKELCO), Northern Davao Electric Cooperative (NORDECO), Davao Light and Power Company (DLPC), Cotabato Light and Power Company (CLPC), and neighboring localities, affecting an estimated 864,000 households. Damage assessments and system inspections remain ongoing as electric cooperatives and distribution utilities continue field operations to determine the extent of the impact and facilitate the safe restoration of electricity services.
Immediately following the earthquake, the DOE activated coordination mechanisms with the NEA, NPC, National Transmission Corporation (TransCo), National Grid Corporation of the Philippines (NGCP), electric cooperatives, distribution utilities, and generation companies to assess the condition of power facilities and ensure a timely and coordinated response.
The DOE and NEA have mobilized the emergency Task Force Kapatid, which deploys lineworkers from non affected electric cooperatives to strengthen restoration efforts in affected areas. Task Force Kapatid provides additional manpower, equipment, and technical assistance to the affected distribution utilities.
The DOE has directed affected distribution utilities to prioritize the restoration of electricity service to critical facilities, particularly hospitals and evacuation centers. The Department is also coordinating with relevant stakeholders to monitor the readiness of backup power systems and help ensure the uninterrupted operation of these facilities while assessment and restoration activities are ongoing.
As aftershocks continue to be recorded in affected areas, damage assessments and system inspections are proceeding with caution to ensure the safety of lineworkers, engineers, and emergency response personnel on the ground. Restoration activities will commence as soon as conditions safely allow, as ongoing tremors may present risks to personnel, equipment, and critical infrastructure during field operations.
“The safety of our communities and our energy workers remains our foremost priority. Our teams are on the ground working closely with electric cooperatives, critical sectors, and other energy sector stakeholders to assess conditions and restore electricity services safely, responsibly, and at the soonest possible time,” Energy Secretary Sharon S. Garin said.
The DOE advises the public to prioritize safety as aftershocks may still occur. Residents are encouraged to follow the guidance of the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS) and local authorities, avoid areas with damaged infrastructure, stay clear of fallen power lines and electrical facilities, and promptly report any electrical hazards to the appropriate utility provider or local government unit.
The DOE remains committed to ensuring that affected communities receive the support they need and that electricity services are restored safely, responsibly, and at the soonest possible time. The Department will provide the public with timely information as assessment and restoration efforts progress.
