(Taguig City). Energy Secretary Alfonso G. Cusi directed the mobilization of energy assets to fast-track any restoration initiatives amid the entry of Tropical Storm Marce in the Philippine Area of Responsibility last night (24 November).

“I have instructed the Power Bureau and industry participants to ensure the mobility of assets for smooth restoration in the event that the typhoon damages energy facilities as it passes by,” Cusi said.

As of 2:00 p.m. 25 November, the National Grid Corporation of the Philippines reported that there are currently three down transmission facilities (Panit-an-Altavas 69kV Line, Panit-an-Nabas 138kV Line & San Jose-Bugasong 69kV Line) affecting parts of the provinces of Aklan, Antique and Capiz.

The NGCP had earlier restored offline transmission lines.  These are the Paranas-Taft-Borongan-Quinapondan 69kV Line, Tolosa-San Isidro 69kV Line and Panit-an-Roxas 69kV Line, which affected parts of the provinces of Eastern Samar, Leyte and Capiz.

According to NGCP, the inspection and restoration of lines in the affected areas will be in full swing as soon as the weather allows.

Meanwhile, Cusi said the National Electrification Administration reported that nearly 96% of the households were energized after the wrath of superTyphoon Lawin early this month. Affected areas in Northern Luzon were the provinces of Cagayan, Isabela, Abra, Kalinga and Apayao.

Amid these natural calamities, Cusi emphasized the need to strengthen energy resiliency measures to ensure that typhoon-hit areas will still enjoy their holidays in December.

“Giving them electricity right after a calamity gives them hope, and this could be our little gift to them for Christmas,” Cusi concluded.

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