14 March 2016
(Taguig City) In constant pursuit for adequate and reliable power in Mindanao, the Inter-Agency Task Force on Securing Energy Facilities (IATFSEF), headed by the Department of Energy (DOE), has successfully restored Tower No. 25 today (March 14), which connected the generated power from Agus Hydroelectric Plant Units 1 and 2.
The Members of the IATFSEF commenced restoration activities on March 05 or 24 hours after the court ruling from Regional Trial Court of Lanao del Sur was served to the Sambitory family (the defendants), directing them to allow access in their claimed property for the rehabilitation to proceed smoothly.
“With the cooperation from all stakeholders to restore Tower No. 25, Mindanaoans have again enjoyed about 80 megawatts of cheaper and cleaner power supply from the Agus plants. This will substantially result in reduction of rotating brownouts in the affected areas,” Energy Secretary Zenaida Y. Monsada said.
Moreover, the IATFSEF calls on further public support following the execution of the Commission on Elections (COMELEC) Resolution No. 10067 deputizing member agencies to implement clearing of trees, infrastructures and any obstructions beneath the transmission facilities to ensure reliable power during the national and local elections in May.
Secretary Monsada emphasized that the desire to sustain the reliability of the transmission grid does not end at restoring the toppled transmission tower, but more on stimulating the continued support of the people on the programs relative to the maintenance of integrity and reliability of all energy assets, which are vital “public assets” benefitting everyone. Moreover, all electricity consumers are encouraged to observe energy efficiency and conservation in their day-to-day activities.
The IATFSEF remains keen in upholding public interest as priority in all of its action plans, especially to prevent untoward incidents from happening again that may compromise not just the energy facilities, but the lives and welfare of the people.