Ripple effect of reliable electricity service

As the world continues to progress with many technological innovations, we often overlook a basic need that surprisingly, remains as scarcity for some: stable electricity service. Despite advancements in society, reliable electricity is still a privilege for several communities in the country.

Turning the lights on, cooling our homes with aircon and fans, charging our gadgets, watching news and movies on the television – these are some of the daily activities that we often take for granted. Yet for many, these simple acts remain a luxury. While economic hubs like Metro Manila enjoy continuous electricity, many areas in the Philippines still struggle with frequent and prolonged power outages.

According to a 2023 study published by the Philippine Institute for Development Studies (PIDS), the country stands to lose millions in hours-long power outages. It is estimated that a five-hour power outage in the country costs the Philippines about P556 million in economic losses, according to PIDS data. Beyond being detrimental to Filipinos’ quality of life, these outages are also a significant threat to economic growth and societal progress given that electricity is cornerstone of any commerce and industry.

Unreliable electricity service causing regular power outages is not merely an inconvenience – it hampers progress because it stagnates business operations, reduces productivity and diminishes the quality of life within affected communities.

Addressing frequent power failures in these areas is crucial in order to accelerate economic growth and progress in the provinces and avoid potential missed output. Ensuring energy security likewise aligns with President Marcos‘ 10-point agenda for economic renewal and long-term growth.

In the growing region of Batangas, this call becomes more palpable with a development at the recent meeting of the League of Municipalities of the Philippines (LMP)-Batangas Chapter. Eighteen mayors recently passed a resolution that supports the joint venture between the Manila Electric Co. (Meralco) and Batangas Electric Cooperative Inc. (Batelec) 1 and 2, aiming to address the problem of recurring power outages and improve the general quality of electricity service. Through this partnership, Meralco is set to invest additional capital and provide technical expertise to enhance the electricity service in Batangas.

This resolution reflects the long-standing demand of Batangueños for improved electricity service. The partnership between Meralco and Batelec 1 and 2 is anticipated to significantly enhance the quality and reliability of electricity service throughout Batangas province, benefiting both residents and businesses alike.

The ripple effect is certain. Enhancements in the quality and reliability of electricity service in developing areas like Batangas act as a magnet, attracting more investors to pour in capital into regions outside of Metro Manila. This influx of investment will in turn create additional jobs and open more economic opportunities, fostering regional growth and development.

More importantly, the quality of life among citizens is greatly enhanced with stable and reliable power service. Electricity is, more than anything, an enabler. It enables the provision of quality healthcare, education, social services, even recreational activities.

To ensure that this comes to fruition, there needs to be a strong collaboration among energy stakeholders, as well as support from the government. It is imperative upon the local government units (LGUs) to explore ways to continuously improve and strengthen the electricity infrastructure in their areas.

Collaboration between energy industry leaders such as Meralco, Batelec 1, and Batelec 2 can serve as a blueprint for how utilities can unite to enhance electricity service quality, generating a positive ripple effect across all aspects of life.

Looking ahead, I am hopeful that stability and reliability issues with electricity service will become a thing of the past in areas like Batangas. This development will enable more communities to enjoy improved quality of life and greater economic opportunities.