THE SHADOW of power instability in Iloilo City, as this paper reported yesterday detailing the delay in the construction of the National Grid Corporation of the Philippines (NGCP) Iloilo substation, is a matter of urgent public concern. This situation is not just about the inconvenience of periodic blackouts; it’s a potential crisis that could stifle the economic growth and quality of life in this vibrant city.
MORE Electric and Power Corporation, Iloilo City’s sole power distributor, has raised an alarm. The delay in building the new 3×100 MVA substation in La Paz district threatens to plunge the city into rotating brownouts by the end of 2024. Such a scenario would be a severe setback for a city that is not only a hub of commercial activity in the region but also home to a growing population dependent on stable electricity for their daily lives.
What is concerning is the apparent disconnect between the urgency of the situation and the pace of progress. While NGCP assures that the substation will be commissioned by December 31, 2024, skepticism is understandable. The timeline presented by NGCP itself suggests a construction period of 450 days – a duration that seems barely feasible within the stipulated deadline. This discrepancy is not just a matter of bureaucratic red tape; it’s a potential threat to the city’s lifeline.
Furthermore, the delay in this project it, reflects a larger issue of prioritization and resource allocation by NGCP. It raises critical questions about the efficiency and effectiveness of planning and execution in infrastructure projects that are vital to regional economies. The 3×100 MVA substation is not just another infrastructure project; it’s a safeguard against the economic and social disruption caused by power outages.
Meanwhile, the completion soon of the CNP3 project, which aims to link Panay, Negros, and Cebu and improve the overall power infrastructure, is indeed a welcome development. However, it does not diminish the immediate necessity of the Iloilo substation. The city’s power demands are growing, and the substation is a crucial piece in meeting these needs.
As stakeholders in the future of Iloilo City, we must collectively voice our concern and urge the NGCP and relevant authorities to expedite the construction of the Iloilo substation. This is not merely a call for uninterrupted electricity; it’s a plea for the assurance of economic stability, the well-being of residents, and the overall progress of a city poised for growth. The people of Iloilo deserve transparency, accountability, and most importantly, timely action to avoid the impending power crisis. Let this situation be a wake-up call for all involved parties to prioritize the city’s immediate needs and ensure a stable and bright future for Iloilo.
