DAVAO Light president and COO Enriczar Tia said the Davao-Samal Submarine Interconnection which was inaugurated on 17 April 2026 provides more than enough capacity to accommodate future expansion, noting that it exceeds Samal’s current peak demand of 12 megawatts. PHOTOGRAPH courtesy of Northern Davao Electric Cooperative
BUSINESS

Aboitiz boosts Samal power with submarine link

Mico Virata

Aboitiz Power Corporation has strengthened the supply of electricity in Samal Island with the completion of a submarine cable project designed to support long-term growth and improve reliability.

The company, together with Davao Light and Power Company, inaugurated the Davao–Samal Submarine Interconnection on 17 April in Samal, marking a key infrastructure upgrade for the island’s power system.

The project links the Island Garden City of Samal to the Davao City grid through a 1.25-kilometer, 69-kilovolt submarine cable laid across the Pakiputan Strait.

Ability to meet electricity demand

With a capacity of 50 megawatts, the facility is expected to significantly enhance the island’s ability to meet rising electricity demand.

Davao Light president and COO Enriczar Tia said the interconnection provides more than enough capacity to accommodate future expansion, noting that it exceeds Samal’s current peak demand of 12 megawatts.

The new link also reduces the island’s dependence on localized power sources, helping stabilize supply and minimize disruptions, particularly as tourism and commercial activity continue to grow.

Custom-built submarine cable

The submarine cable, custom-built to meet project specifications, reflects AboitizPower’s broader push to invest in critical energy infrastructure across its service areas.