ILOILO CITY – The power outage in Iloilo City since January 2 has resulted in an estimated economic loss of PHP 1.5 billion, according to a city official on Thursday.
Velma Lao, head of the Local Economic Development and Investment Promotion Office (LEDIPO), shared that the daily loss is approximately PHP 400 million to PHP 500 million. This three-day total is derived from the city's 2022 annual gross domestic product, totaling PHP 145 billion.
Lao verified the estimated losses with the private sector and the Philippine Statistics Authority, both concurring with the computation method. She emphasized that if the power failure had lasted only one day, businesses could recover more easily. However, prolonged dependence on generator sets would impact operational expenses and eventually lead to business disruptions.
The service sector, particularly business process outsourcing firms, is among the hardest hit, with concerns already expressed to the city government by some principals.
In a 4:37 p.m. advisory, More Power and Electric Corporation (MORE Power) reported that power has been restored in 41.59 percent of its franchise area. Rotational loading and manual load dropping are in place based on clearance from the National Grid Corporation of the Philippines (NGCP). NGCP has provided 246.3 megawatts, including 210.6 MW from Panay power plants and 35.7 MW from other Visayan sources.
NGCP is awaiting the synchronization of the Palm Concepcion Power Corporation (PCPC), which can contribute 135 MW. PCPC Vice President for Operations Engr. Albino Kintanar anticipates connecting to the grid around 10 p.m. on Thursday, aiming to deliver 135 MW, contingent on a smooth ramp-up process.
Kintanar explained that the delay was due to the absence of black start capability, requiring power from NGCP to restart. He expressed hope that PCPC would be online by midnight, gradually adding power to the Panay grid. (PNA)
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