Benguet: Aboitiz Power has donated 4,400 liters of fuel to local governments in Benguet and Mountain Province to support disaster response efforts following recent weather disturbances that caused widespread flooding, landslides, and power outages across northern Luzon.

According to Philippines News Agency, the fuel assistance, provided through Aboitiz Renewables, Inc. and Aboitiz Foundation, Inc., is intended to power heavy equipment used in clearing operations, generators, and emergency vehicles delivering food, water, and medical supplies.

'We work closely with our local partners to respond quickly during emergencies,' Noreen Vicencio, Aboitiz Renewables' First Vice President and General Manager for Hydro Operations, said in a press statement Saturday. "This fuel assistance helps restore access and bring basic services back to the communities."

The donation came as persistent rains, dumping up to 200 mm. in some areas, rendered numerous provincial and barangay roads impassable, isolating communities, including those hosting nine of Aboitiz Renewables' run-of-river hydropower facilities.

According to PAGASA, the continuous rains have saturated mountain soil, increasing the risk of landslides and prolonging power interruptions.

Vicencio said the assistance was coordinated with local government units and their Local Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Councils as part of the company's ongoing support for community and emergency response.

'The fuel subsidy provided by Aboitiz Renewables is more than just logistical support. It is a lifeline for our community. It allowed us to swiftly clear blocked access roads and fast-track our recovery efforts,' La Trinidad Mayor Roderick Awingan said.

'Timely interventions like this are crucial in helping us restore normalcy. We are grateful for Aboitiz Renewables' continued support to disaster recovery and resilience."