IN A BID to speedily address the recurring electricity outages in several areas in Northern Samar, District II representative Edwin Ongchuan is urging the National Grid Corp. of the Philippines (NGCP) to fasttrack its key power infrastructure projects in Calbayog, San Isidro and Allen towns and other municipalities.
Ongchuan, vice chair of the House Committee on Energy, was prompted to ask this of the NGCP following frequent power interruptions that have been hampering economic activity and public services and lowering the quality of life in the province.
Citing the adverse effects of the problem, the Nortehanon congressman cited the Calbayog-San Isidro-Allen Transmission Line Project, which is already 92 percent complete but still requires right-of-way adjustments and rerouting coordination with the Calbayog City government.
“I strongly urged NGCP to expedite and fast-track the project, stressing that the alternative transmission line would significantly reduce the frequency of blackouts and provide a more stable supply of electricity to Northern Samar,” he pointed out.
The lawmaker likewise asked about the Lawaan-Laoang Substation and the NGCP 69 kV line serving Mapanas and nearby towns, stressing their importance in meeting rising power demand and sustaining local growth.
In addition, he further raised concerns over the island towns of San Vicente, San Antonio, and Batag, questioning whether they will be connected to the grid or remain reliant on costly generator sets.