GMA fails to land in Cagayan de Oro

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY — President Arroyo’s plane attempted twice but failed to land at the Lumbia airport yesterday. Thus, she was not able to grace the inauguration of the Steag State Power’s coal-fired power plant in nearby Misamis Oriental as well as the 77th anniversary celebration of the province.

Energy Secretary Rafael Lotilla took over the President’s place in the inauguration.

In behalf of the President, Lotilla thanked the politicians who were instrumental in the realization of the coal-fired power plant, including Lanao del Norte Rep. Alipio Badelles, Misamis Oriental Rep. Augusto Baculio Jr., Misamis Oriental Gov. Oscar Moreno, and Marawi City Mayor Omar Ali, among others.

Construction of the power plant in Barangay San Martin, Villanueva in Misamis Oriental took a total of 36 months.

With the opening of the coal-fired power plant, Lotilla said the electrical reserves in Mindanao will increase from 13.2 percent to 24.6 percent. Dependence on the pricey oil-based power plants will likewise be reduced from 30 percent to 13 percent.