Transco ready for power contingencies in M’danao

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY — The National Transmission Corp. (Transco) in Mindanao is ready for any power interruptions on Election Day.

Lorrimer Adasa, Transco vice president for Mindanao, said that while they cannot give assurances about the steady supply of power on May 10, they are prepared for any contingencies.

Part of this readiness, Adasa said, is the fielding of satellite operatives or "line gangs" who will respond fast to repair transmission lines in case of failure in any of Mindanao’s six big transmission districts.

In the Northern-Central Mindanao district, which covers this city, at least seven "line gangs" of eight members each will be fielded in strategic places: four in Bukidnon and three in Cagayan de Oro and other places, according to district manager Emmanuel Abellanosa.

Adasa said they are working overtime to repair and maintain transmission lines on the island.

Abellanosa said they are closely coordinating with the military to thwart any attempts to sabotage transmission lines.

Maj. Gen. Samuel Bagasin, commander of the Army’s 4th Infantry Division, said soldiers will guard transmission towers, especially in the Lanao provinces, to prevent rebels and other criminal elements from causing power outages on Election Day.