Energy Secretary Sharon Garin released an energy situation report following the 7.4-magnitude earthquake that struck Davao Oriental on Friday, assuring the public that the Department of Energy (DOE) is closely monitoring power restoration efforts across affected areas, as reported by RH Jecelle Ricafort.
According to the DOE, three electric cooperatives—Davao Electric Cooperative, Davao del Sur Electric Cooperative, and Northern Davao Electric Cooperative—experienced partial power interruptions after the quake. These are among the five cooperatives initially reported by the National Electrification Administration (NEA) as affected.
Meanwhile, operations have returned to normal for the Surigao del Sur I Electric Cooperative (SURSECO-I) and Surigao del Sur II Electric Cooperative.
The DOE said assessment and coordination continue with other electric cooperatives in Mindanao. In addition, three private distribution utilities, including Davao Light and Power Company, were also affected.
Three power generation plants went offline due to automatic tripping but have since resumed operations. The National Grid Corporation of the Philippines (NGCP) reported a total load drop of 731.52 megawatts during the incident, but noted that transmission services remain stable across North Eastern, North Central, and North Western Mindanao.
Sec. Garin expressed hope that the damage caused by the quake would be minimal to ensure faster power restoration.
“Let’s heed the call for the tsunami warning and prioritize safety because aftershocks, even if not that strong, can still cause damage and injury,” Garin said.
She also shared that they are actively gathering information on the affected cooperatives, generation plants, and NGCP areas.
Garin added that restoration teams must first ensure safety before resuming repair operations.
“It’s a protective measure. We have to make sure it’s safe to go in before we begin restoration. We will work as fast as we can so that help can reach Davao Oriental and other affected areas seamlessly—because without electricity, national government services cannot function,” she emphasized.
