Davao: The Davao Light and Power Co., Inc. (DLPC) guaranteed consistent and high-quality service in its franchise areas in the Davao Region as it awaits regulatory procedures for Republic Act (RA) 12144, which expands its franchise to Davao del Norte and Davao de Oro provinces, to take effect. The law was published in the Official Gazette on April 9 and will take effect April 24.

According to Philippines News Agency, the new legislation will allow the DLPC to extend its services, which are currently under the Northern Davao Electric Cooperative (Nordeco). Nordeco said it will defend its franchise areas and is preparing to challenge DLPC before the Supreme Court.

The areas that will transition to DLPC include the municipalities of Asuncion, Kapalong, New Corella, San Isidro, and Talaingod, Tagum City, and Island Garden City of Samal in Davao del Norte, and the municipalities of Laak, Mabini, Maco, Maragusan, Mawab, Monkayo, Montevista, Nabunturan, New Bataan, and Pantukan in Davao de Oro. Currently, the DLPC serves Davao City and parts of Davao Del Norte, which include Panabo City; the towns of Carmen, Braulio E. Dujali and Sto. Tomas; and portions of Asuncion and Kapalong.

'We undertake to respect and align with these processes and their timelines,' the power firm said in a statement Monday. 'We are dedicated to transparent communication and maintaining the standards they expect throughout this period.'

In a previous statement, Nordeco said it will pursue all available legal remedies to defend its franchises, the welfare of member-consumer-owners, and the integrity of the rural electrification program.