Batangas residents lament electric coops’ poor services

Allegations of electoral support and service deficiencies are casting a shadow over electric cooperatives in Batangas province ahead of the upcoming midterm elections, according to a recent survey.

A study by Capstone-Intel Corporation, released Friday, revealed widespread dissatisfaction among Batangas residents with the services provided by BATELEC 1 and BATELEC 2, the province’s two largest electric cooperatives.

The survey, which polled 1,200 respondents across 34 cities and municipalities, found that 62 percent experience one to two power outages per month, with some reporting as many as ten.

Residents served by BATELEC 2 reported the highest incidence of outages, with 93 percent experiencing multiple interruptions, compared to 81 percent of BATELEC 1 customers. These outages typically last one to two hours, but some extend to three hours.

“These findings underscore a widening gap in electricity service across the province,” said Dr. Guido David, chief data scientist of Capstone-Intel, during a press conference. He cited persistent mismanagement and chronic underinvestment in infrastructure as key issues.

The survey also highlighted allegations of electric cooperatives providing support to local and party-list candidates during elections, raising concerns about impartiality. Residents also reported overcharging, potentially violating Energy Regulatory Commission regulations, and a lack of corrective action from the National Electrification Administration.

Capstone-Intel’s survey also revealed low customer satisfaction ratings for BATELEC 1 and BATELEC 2, with both scoring below the provincial average. Many residents expressed a willingness to switch providers, particularly those served by BATELEC 2.