Fixing Batangas power problem

Hundreds of thousands of tourists and residents in Batangas experience power outages at a time when electricity is most needed, particularly during the peak season of Holy Week and December. Unfortunately, the Batangas I and II Electric Cooperatives servicing the province cannot supply the power needed in critical seasons.

I had the misfortune of being among hundreds of thousands of Filipinos who had to endure this power problem in Batangas. The problem is more frustrating during the summer months when most resorts operate at total capacity, but unfortunately, BATELEC cannot supply us with sufficient electricity.

Expectedly, residents and businesses clamor to switch away from their current provider due to high costs and poor service.

The voices of Batangueños from Nasugbu resonated loud and clear as the Sangguniang Bayan responded to the complaints of residents and businesses' concerns against the current power distributor in the municipality.

In a strong endorsement for a better quality of service, the Sangguniang Bayan of Nasugbu passed Resolution 368 on 4 December 2023, expressing their support for MERALCO to take over electricity distribution in the municipality.

This decision comes after widespread dissatisfaction with the current provider, Batangas I Electric Cooperative, Inc., or BATELEC I. A petition signed by some 22,695 residents and businesses highlighted concerns about excessive electricity bills, frequent power interruptions, and poor service quality that disrupt day-to-day lives and operations.

These issues have significantly impacted the community, burdened consumers and hindering the growth of local businesses.

"The Sangguniang Bayan understands the frustrations of our people. Their voices were heard loud and clear. Our residents have struggled with unreliable and expensive electricity for too long," Nasugbu Vice Mayor Mildred B. Sanchez shared.

"The Resolution that the Sangguniang Bayan recently passed marks a turning point for Nasugbu. We are confident that MERALCO's expertise and proven track record would unlock a new era of growth and prosperity for our community," she said.

The Resolution also directs the Office of the Municipal Mayor to actively facilitate the transition process, including collaboration among BATELEC I, the national government, and relevant agencies to encourage MERALCO's expansion and ensure a smooth handover.

Additionally, the Resolution authorizes the Municipal Mayor to elevate the matter to the Congress of the Philippines to secure the necessary approvals for the formal transfer of service.

Nasugbu Mayor Tony Barcelon, who also previously expressed strong support for MERALCO's entry into the municipality, said: "This resolution isn't just a piece of paper. It's the culmination of the voices, anxieties, and hopes of every resident struggling with unreliable and unaffordable electricity."

"For me, it's a personal mission to see its contents become reality. We've taken the crucial first step with Nasugbu's overwhelming support for MERALCO. Ngayon, hinihingi ko ang maigting na suporta ng ating Congressman, Department of Energy, at National Electrification Administration upang tanggalin ang mga balakid para sa isang maliwanag na bukas para sa Nasugbu," he concluded.