Albay: Power has been fully restored in the main areas of Albay following the devastation caused by Super Typhoon Uwan (international name Fung-wong) last November, the Albay Electric Cooperative (Aleco) reported on Tuesday.

According to Philippines News Agency, Aleco public information officer Anj Galero said restoration efforts are now at 97.92 percent completion. As of Dec. 1, out of a total of 720 barangays in the province, Aleco has restored power to 705, she added.

The remaining power outages are limited to barangays in an island town. "The remaining 15 barangays are in Rapu Rapu. Due to the area's isolation, we need additional time to transport materials to address the damage. Teams are already on-site working to expedite the process," she said in a phone interview.

Galero noted that out of 211,040 consumers, 99.98 percent have had their connections energized. Aleco expressed gratitude for the cooperation and understanding of the public as repairs are conducted on various power lines and equipment.

"The restoration process was challenging due to the extensive damage caused by the weather disturbance and the difficulties encountered by our dedicated linemen. However, through their tireless dedication and continuous efforts, we were able to quickly and safely restore power to all affected areas," she said.

Aleco extended its thanks to the National Electrification Administration and the Philippine Rural Electric Cooperatives Association, along with the Electric Cooperatives-Oriental Mindoro Electric Cooperative, Inc. and Negros Oriental II Electric Cooperative under Task Force Kapatid, as well as local government units and other organizations that provided immediate assistance to support the restoration efforts.

"Their assistance played a significant role in the rapid restoration of power in the province of Albay," Galero said.