Power loss during Ruby’s onslaught

CEBU, Philippines - The Department of Energy has warned electricity consumers and businesses that typhoon Ruby could cut power in Visayas areas where the storm is expected to sweep through.

In an interview yesterday, DOE Visayas Director Antonio Labios said hard-hit provinces may suffer from power outage as a result of damaged power facilities.

He said DOE is closely working with the National Grid Corporation of the Philippines in identifying transmission facilities that would surely be affected.

“[By identifying] the transmission lines nga posibleng ma-damage, mahibaw-an nato karon ang focus sa atong restoration later,” he said.

Labios said the typhoon’s strong winds may cut power lines off from the main power grid, topple electrical polls, and shut down transmission facilities.

He said they are also keeping in touch with the National Electrification Administration and various electric cooperatives on updates on their operations.

The agency has been monitoring the storm’s path to know what areas in the region that may suffer the most from widespread power loss, he said.

The energy official also assured that power distribution companies, electric cooperatives, and the government have put in place measures for quick restoration of power.

He said power distribution uti-lities like the Visayan Electric Company have prepared contingency measures for possible power interruptions at the storm’s wake.

VECO said it has prepared gang trucks, emergency crew members, feeder patrollers and linemen to help restore power in its franchise areas.

Labios said the needed spare parts, posts and materials must also be in place to make the restoration process faster.

Business establishments have already anticipated the possible impact of the disaster on their operations, and have readied generators as a crisis management measure.

“Kana sila nag-anticipate na pud sa kadaot. Although limited lang ang generator sa pila ka oras, nevertheless it can help continue the business gihapon,” Labios said.

He also assured the public that there is enough fuel supply and that fuel companies could satisfy the demand. Consumers can take advantage of the decreasing fuel prices in the market, he said.

In addition, Cebu Bankers Club president Gino Gonzalez informed The FREEMAN that bank operations in Cebu are suspended today. He said banking hours were shortened yesterday until 2 p.m.

However, he said, automated teller machines would still continue to serve the public. — Carlo S. Lorenciana/RHM (FREEMAN)