TAGUIG CITY - Department of Energy (DOE) Secretary Alfonso G. Cusi called on the members of the energy sector to prepare for the impending impact of Typhoon Rolly during a virtual meeting of the DOE-led Task Force on Energy Resiliency earlier this afternoon.
According to the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Services Administration, Rolly, which has been steadily gaining strength over water, is forecasted to make landfall in Aurora or Quezon on Sunday Evening (1 November) or early Monday morning (2 November).
“The energy sector must be well-prepared to effectively prevent and minimize potential damage to our energy facilities. Without sacrificing the safety of our personnel, we must also be ready to respond immediately and conduct rapid damage assessments should the typhoon leave a trail of destruction in its wake,” Secretary Cusi emphasized.
Energy industry stakeholders have already been alerted to begin their monitoring activities and to activate their respective disaster risk preparedness and response protocols.
For the power sector, the Energy chief has directed the National Electrification Administration to mobilize its Task Force Kapatid for the immediate restoration of power in areas that would be affected by Typhoon Rolly, while the National Power Corporation; Philippine Independent Power Producers Association; National Grid Corporation of the Philippines; and the Manila Electric Company have likewise assured Secretary Cusi that they have learned from their experiences with previous typhoons and are ready with their contingency and response plans.
With regard to the oil sector, Secretary Cusi has again asked oil companies to secure the proper fuel inventory levels, and reminded them on the implementation of a price freeze on household liquefied petroleum gas and kerosene products should there be areas placed under a State of Calamity.
“We would like to assure the public that the energy family is working together to see to it that our energy facilities remain operational at all times. In the meantime, we would like to appeal to everyone to remain vigilant and cooperate with the authorities as we brace for Typhoon Rolly,” Secretary Cusi concluded.
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