Electric coop targets to restore power in Masbate within a month

By Connie Calipay and Sheldeen Joy Talavera

LEGAZPI CITY --- About 40 percent of Masbate Electric Cooperative’s (Maselco) distribution lines across its coverage area have been damaged by Severe Tropical Storm Opong (international name Bualoi).

Maselco said the ongoing repairs to the distribution lines are prioritized in Masbate City, with a targeted power restoration timeline of one week.

“For other affected areas, restoration may take up to 30 days, depending on the extent of the damage,” its social media post read.

Maselco added that a full evaluation of the situation is hampered by road blockages and communication challenges.

Meanwhile, various electric cooperatives from the Bicol region arrive in the province to assist with power restoration efforts.

Maselco is addressing material and logistical shortages in coordination with partner electric cooperatives in the Bicol Region.

“We appreciate your continued patience and cooperation as we work tirelessly to restore electricity to our communities,” the post added.

Task Force Kapatid, a bayanihan program of electric cooperatives, involves neighboring provinces sending linemen to help restore electricity during times of calamity.

Meanwhile, the damaged energy infrastructure in Masbate caused by Typhoon Opong will cost around P400 million to be restored, the Department of Energy (DoE) said on Monday.

“We are moving with urgency, but also with care. Safety remains our top priority for both workers on the ground and the public,” Energy Secretary Sharon S. Garin said in a statement on Tuesday.

Ms. Garin, along with Undersecretary Mario C. Marasigan, National Electrification Administration Administrator Antonio Mariano C. Almeda, National Power Corporation President Jericho Jonas B. Nograles, and other NEA officials visited the province to assess the hardest-hit areas where transmission lines, distribution facilities, and generation assets that severely damaged.

Typhoon Opong, which recently battered the Bicol Region, caused widespread damage to energy infrastructure, resulting in power interruptions in many parts of Masbate.