SARANGANI PROVINCE — Indigenous Peoples (IP) communities in Sarangani have expressed support for the proposed joint venture between Manila Electric Co. (Meralco) and South Cotabato II Electric Cooperative (SOCOTECO II), citing the need for more reliable power in upland areas crucial to their survival and development.

The Municipal Tribal Councils of Maasim and Maitum have each passed resolutions endorsing Meralco’s offer, highlighting persistent power issues under SOCOTECO II that have long affected essential services in their ancestral domains.

In Resolution No. 004-25, approved on 25 November, the Maasim Tribal Council noted SOCOTECO II’s “alleged operational and financial difficulties” as the cause of unstable electricity supply across the franchise area, including several IP-dominated upland sitios and barangays.

“Access to stable and affordable electricity is essential for the development of IP communities — particularly in education, agro-forestry, small enterprises, safety, and cultural livelihood programs,” the resolution stated.

A similar endorsement was approved during Maitum’s 12 November council session, reaffirming support while emphasizing non-negotiables for indigenous groups.