The Visayas grid is set to receive lower power imports from Mindanao due to damage inflicted by a powerful earthquake. The Department of Energy (DOE) reported that a magnitude 7.8 earthquake struck General Santos City, impacting essential energy infrastructure.
Significant Infrastructure Damage
We recognize that 450 megawatts (MW) is being exported from Mindanao to Cebu. But at the moment, we still have normal operation in the market, which means there is ample transfer, but not necessarily the full 450 MW.
Mario Marasigan, Energy Undersecretary
Despite the decrease in power supply, the DOE reassured consumers in the Visayas that the grid will remain stable. They have initiated measures to prioritize the restoration of power to critical facilities.
The earthquake has disrupted operations at key power plants, including the SMC Malita Coal Plant and the Sarangani Energy Corporation Coal Plant, which are both offline for repairs. Transmission facilities, such as the Matanao–General Santos 138-kilovolt line, were also affected.
Recovery operations are underway, focusing on restoring power to hospitals, evacuation centers, and other essential services. The DOE, along with the National Electrification Administration (NEA), is working closely with local electric cooperatives to assess the damage and expedite repairs.