By Liezelle Soriano
MANILA — The Department of Energy (DOE) has indicated that electricity may potentially be restored to Panay Island on Friday, three days after the onset of the power outage.
DOE Assistant Secretary Mario Marasigan stated that they are aiming for the restoration of electricity “within the day.”
“Tentatively, we are targeting within the day, what we call the ramp rate. The increase in capacity should be manageable within the day,” Marasigan explained.
“Our priority is to restore electricity service to Panay Island. We are closely monitoring the reoperation of the Palm Concepcion power plant, which has a capacity of 135MW. Hopefully, it will reach full operational capacity and synchronize with the grid within the day,” he added.
“We hope it won’t extend into the night.”
The blackout commenced on January 2.
Iloilo City Mayor Jerry Treñas expressed concern, stating that the city is incurring losses of P400 million to P500 million daily due to power interruptions and rotational brownouts.
“In three days, we would have lost P1.5 billion. What a way to start the new year!”
Earlier, Treñas called for a congressional inquiry to take place in Iloilo City.
“I am requesting that any legislative investigation by Congress be held in Iloilo City. The Provincial Capitol is an ideal location for this investigation. It is necessary for our legislators, NGCP, DoE, ERC, and other agencies to feel the collective indignation of the Ilonggo people regarding the incompetence of NGCP,” Treñas emphasized.
(el Amigo/MNM)