Power supply restoration near completion after disruptions following the Mindanao earthquake

Power almost fully restored in areas affected by the strong earthquake that hit Sarangani and neighboring areas as two power plants have been fixed, transmission lines restored, power utility companies back online, Energy Secretary Sharon Garin reported.

In a statement, Garin said that at least four power plants, two transmission lines, four private distribution utilities, and 8 electric cooperatives encountered problems following the 7.8-magnitude earthquake that hit Maasim, Sarangani and nearby areas early Monday morning.

"As ordered by the President, the energy family activated our response teams in order to deploy as many men and women from all over the country to help restore the areas," said Garin.

"As of last update, 2 power plants have been fixed, transmission is partially restored, 4 private distribution utilities and 7 electric cooperatives are back online," she added.

Garin said SOCOTECO 2, South Cotabato II Electric Cooperative Inc. remains under total power interruption, or blackout.

"We are working hard and fast to bring back electricity and we ask for patience and understanding. First, we assess and then we restore when it is safe," she assured.

In a press release, the Department of Energy (DOE) with the National Electrification Administration (NEA), and National Power Corporation (Napocor) mobilized rapid response teams to assess energy infrastructure and power restoration in areas affected by the earthquake.

"Based on initial reports, power interruptions are being experienced in several areas, particularly within the franchise areas of South Cotabato II Electric Cooperative Inc. (SOCOTECO 2), South Cotabato I Electric Cooperative Inc. (SOCOTECO I), Sultan Kudarat Electric Cooperative (SUKELCO), Northern Davao Electric Cooperative (NORDECO), Davao Light and Power Company (DLPC), Cotabato Light and Power Company (CLPC), and neighboring localities, affecting around 864,000 households," the DOE said. — BAP, GMA News