NGCP says electrocution from their power lines 'unlikely, but possible'

The National Grid Corporation of the Philippines (NGCP) said that safety measures ensure that electrocution from its lines are unlikely, but such incidents are not impossible.

NGCP spokesperson Cynthia Alabanza on Sunday responded to a request for comment on remarks of Cagayan Governor Manuel Mamba, noting that there were difficulties in rescue operations since the power lines were not shut off.

"'Yung linya ng kuryente halos nakasayad na sa tubig. Kahit NGCP line, ganu'n din po," Mamba said, noting that the Cagayan Electric Cooperative turned off their lines, "pero 'yung National Grid Corporation po ang naging problema."

Mamba reported at least nine casualties in the area due to Typhoon Ulysses (international name: Vamco) -- four buried by a landslide, three electrocuted, and two drowned.

According to Alabanza, the NGCP only shuts down its line when requested, as its feeders cater to large areas that may be home to hospitals and other essential services that need a continuous supply of electricity.

Initial reports in the area indicate that an NGCP line in Cagayan was already shut down even before a request was made, as its system provides automatic tripping once circuits are cut.

"It's unlikely na 'pag bagsak niyan, live pa siya. Hindi impossible, but unlikely, kasi kumbaga meron na siyang protection systems," Alabanza said in a phone interview.

"The safety measures meant to protect the grid make it unlikely, but not impossible. Right now, we do not have enough information to make a statement on that," she added.

Alabanza noted that the NGCP also received reports of possible electrical grounding due to generators and other power lines aside from the NGCP.

A report of the NGCP indicates that line patrol and restoration efforts in Cagayan are hampered by floods.

The NGCP consortium holds a 25-year concession contract and the 50-year franchise to operate the power transmission network of the Philippines.

State Grid Corporation of China (SGCC) holds a 40% stake in NGCP, while the controlling 60% belongs to Henry Sy Jr.'s Monte Oro Grid Resources Corp. and Robert Coyiuto Jr.'s Calaca High Power Corp., which each hold 30%. —LBG, GMA News