Davao city: Consumers in Davao del Norte and Davao de Oro can expect improved power service following the groundbreaking of a 22-megavolt-ampere (MVA) digital substation here on Tuesday.
According to Philippines News Agency, the Davao Light and Power Company (DLPC) launched its digital substation and warehouse/stockyard facilities as part of its expansion into these provinces, pursuant to Republic Act 12144. The law, which took effect on April 24, allows DLPC to extend its services to these two provinces, currently under the Northern Davao Electric Cooperative (Nordeco).
Engineer Enriczar Tia, DLPC president and chief operating officer, said the site launch demonstrates their commitment to empowering communities. 'To the residents and businesses in our expanded franchise areas, we express our profound gratitude for this opportunity,' he said.
Tia mentioned that the 22-MVA substation and accompanying facilities are the first of their kind for DLPC in the expanded franchise areas, symbolizing their immediate commitment and significant investment in the energy future.
For his part, Davao del Norte Governor Edwin Jubahib urged Nordeco to participate in the transition by properly auditing their assets and supporting their employees in continuing their work with DLPC. 'The DLPC will absorb the (Nordeco) employees. If not all are accommodated, we will employ them at the provincial government or various local government units,' he said.
Meanwhile, DLPC has proposed to Nordeco the creation of a Joint Transition Committee for a smooth transfer of operations. Nordeco responded that it will refer the matter to their Board of Directors and Legal Office for further discussion.
Tia said Nordeco has also been transparent about the petition for certiorari and prohibition it submitted to the Supreme Court. 'We acknowledge Nordeco's right and await their feedback on creating the Joint Transition Committee, which we believe is essential for a smooth transition, ensuring clarity, coordination, and preparedness, even with their pending petition,' he said.
