Explosion hits Marawi power pylon

ZAMBOANGA CITY, Philippines - Unidentified men bombed the steel power pylon Thursday night in Marawi City and threw several areas in Mindanao into darkness, according to authorities.

Beth Lagada, information officer of the National Grid Corporation of the Philippines (NGCP), said the bomb exploded in one of its power pylons in Barangay Patani about 9:20 p.m.

Ladaga said the explosion damaged the power pylon and isolated power plants Agus 1 and 2, serving 80 megawatts (MW) and 180MW, respectively.

“The destruction of steel power pylon isolated the two power plants from the grid, causing power loss in several areas in the Mindanao grid,” Ladaga said.

Ladaga said no group has claimed responsibility for the attack.

NGCP will begin restoration activities as soon as the area is secured.

Lagada said they are yet to determine whether the attack was related to NGCP’s right of way issues against some land owners who intentionally planted trees under the power lines, causing a power outrage in Lanao area.