DOE closely monitoring Boracay power outage; restoration works underway

The Department of Energy (DOE) is closely monitoring the power situation in Caticlan, Boracay Island and nearby areas following the unscheduled power interruption that began on Saturday, 13 September at 1:37 PM.

The outage was initially traced to the tripping of the Nabas-Unidos 69kV line, which led to the isolation of the Unidos–Caticlan–Malay and Unidos–Boracay 69kV lines.

The National Grid Corporation of the Philippines (NGCP) and Aklan Electric Cooperative (AKELCO) immediately dispatched line patrols and augmentation teams to identify the root cause and assist in restoration efforts.

By Saturday evening, AKELCO discovered an arcing of 69kV sub transmission of power cables situated at the arrival area of Caticlan Airport. Subsequent tests revealed moisture intrusion and leakage of the underground cables, leaving Boracay Island and the municipalities of Malay and Buruanga isolated from the grid since 2:30 PM on September 13.

To fast-track restoration, NGCP and AKELCO mobilized eight (8) full teams, with additional personnel deployed at dawn on 14 September. With clearance from the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP), construction of a temporary 69kV bypass overhead line is underway. Spanning approximately 800 meters along the beachside perimeter of Caticlan Airport’s runway, this interim solution is targeted to restore electricity to Boracay before midnight, while comprehensive repairs on the underground cable continue.

The Philippine National Police (PNP) is also assisting in securing the installation site to ensure public safety during the restoration activities.

The DOE assured the public that both NGCP and AKELCO are fully committed to restoring electricity at the soonest possible time, especially for Boracay Island, a premier tourism destination and vital economic hub.

“Our foremost priority is to restore reliable electricity supply without delay. We are closely monitoring the situation and working hand-in-hand with NGCP, AKELCO, CAAP, local governments, and partner agencies to normalize power supply in Boracay and neighboring towns,” Energy Secretary Sharon S. Garin said.

As the installation of bypass overhead lines is a temporary solution, Secretary Garin emphasized “continuing efforts are underway, particularly in assisting AKELCO in the immediate repair of its 69kV underground cable, in coordination with the National Electrification Administration, and ensuring that the NGCP shall immediately complete the Nabas-CaticlanBoracay Transmission Line Project. Pursuant to the Order of the Energy Regulatory Commission last 19 November 2024, the NGCP was directed to complete the said project this year to ensure stable and reliable power for Boracay Island

The power requirement of Caticlan and Boracay Island is currently supplied by Nabas Substation via a 69kV overhead transmission line and submarine cable. These transmission facilities need to be upgraded to cater to the forecasted demand of the island.