06 January 2016

Given the heightened insurgency concerns affecting stable and reliable electricity in Mindanao, the DOE strongly calls on the assistance of all stakeholders, especially the Local Government Units (LGUs) to ensure safety and security of vital power infrastructures (i.e., transmission systems, distribution lines and substations), as well as from any obstructions (i.e., bush burning along transmission highways, and planting of trees) under their respective jurisdictions.

The DOE has been constantly coordinating with National Grid Corporation of the Philippines (NGCP), National Power Corporation, concerned LGUs and other energy stakeholders as well as the Mindanao Development Authority, and of course the Office of the Executive Secretary, which is making direct coordinations with the police and the military, to discuss strategies on how to address the situation.

All 14 of the 15 transmission towers that have been toppled or damaged have been restored, while only the Agus2-Kibawe Line in Ramain, Lanao del Sur is yet to be repaired due to some local issues.

"We appeal to the public in general, particularly to the LGUs and land owners to cooperate with the NGCP, the Concessionaire of the national transmission lines, in securing the transmission system which is crucial to bringing electricity to the people of Mindanao," DOE Secretary Zenaida Y. Monsada said.

Energy Secretary Monsada also reminded the public that damages to transmission facilities may eventually be part of the transmission’s recovery cost, which is subject to the approval of Energy Regulatory Commission; so cooperation is highly encouraged from everyone. Hence, the DOE requests the people’s vigilance to report suspicious activities in critical areas through the NGCP’s hotline number: 0917-8791-077.