Co-ops act to ensure stable power supply on election day

MANILA, Philippines - The country’s electric cooperatives (ECs) have stepped up efforts to ensure there would be sufficient power supply during the election period, the National Electrification Administration (NEA) said.

NEA administrator Edita Bueno said the ECs will join forces with the National Power Corp., and the National Grid Corporation of the Philippines/National Transmission Corp. (NGCP/TransCo) in ensuring a brownout-free automated national and local elections, particularly in the rural areas. 

Bueno said NEA has created a special task force, Power Task Force: Operation Bantay Kuryente which started its initial phase in April 2010.  

Bueno said the project runs from April 13 to May 13, 2010 where NGCP will act as the central command post.

“NEA and the ECs play an integral part in making the forthcoming national and local elections successful through the provision of adequate and reliable electric service to its franchise areas. I believe that NEA in partnership with the ECs will provide the needed help. I thank everybody in advance for participating,” Energy Secretary Jose C. Ibazeta said.  

In its operation, NEA, as the command center, will mobilize its counterpart task forces in the different ECs to monitor and submit reports on power service interruptions in their respective coverage areas.

NEA, Bueno said, will also adopt the necessary and appropriate measures to guarantee power reliability before, during and after the electoral process.  

Several activities were already conducted and subsequent tasks are being prepared by the ECs like inspection of distribution line facilities & polling centers; preparation of logistical requirements for mobility and communications, inventory of critical materials, and coordination with NGCP/independent power producers, PNP/school personnel.