Tagum city: The Davao Light and Power Company Inc. (DLPC) welcomed on Wednesday the issuance of a supplemental writ of possession dated May 15 by the Regional Trial Court Branch 2 in Tagum City, granting the firm full authority on the remaining assets held by another power firm in Tagum and the surrounding areas in Davao del Norte.

According to Philippines News Agency, the order affirms DLPC's lawful right to possess and operate all assets formerly held by the Northern Davao Electric Cooperative Inc. (NORDECO). The court sheriff has formally served NORDECO with a notice to vacate. With the writ's implementation, DLPC can now fully serve Tagum City and the towns of Asuncion, San Isidro, Kapalong, Talaingod, and New Corella, all in Davao del Norte.

The decision follows the Supreme Court's affirmation of the constitutionality of Republic Act 12144, which expanded DLPC's franchise area to include the affected municipalities. "Davao Light remains committed to ensuring a smooth, orderly, and lawful transition process with minimal service disruptions," the company said, adding that cooperation from NORDECO's board and officers is crucial to safeguard personnel and ensure reliable service delivery.

DLPC noted that residents and businesses in its expanded service areas are already benefiting from lower electricity rates, with May 2026 charges dropping to PHP10.35 per kilowatt-hour (kWh), down by PHP0.18 from April's PHP10.53/kWh.

NORDECO, meanwhile, vowed to challenge the supplemental writ and the notice to vacate in the proper forum. "Still, NORDECO will not abandon the Rural and Missionary Electrification Program of the government. Our electric cooperative shall continue to protect the rights and gains of the program," the power coop said in its May 19 statement.