THE OTHER DAY while walking down the historic Calle Real, I noticed that parts of JM Basa Street are now free of those unsightly not to mention dangerous “spaghetti wires”.
Naturally I assumed that the implementation of MORE Power’s P96.4-million underground cabling system or more appropriately called Underground Distribution Services (UDS) is ongoing.
Indeed, a groundbreaking achievement for urban infrastructure development, MORE Power’s UDS project along JM Basa Street is advancing rapidly, with an anticipated completion date set for June 2024.
The civil works, constituting 35% of the project and encompassing dredging and drilling activities, are well underway.
With an additional two months allocated for the removal of existing facilities, the UDS initiative spans from the corner of Arroyo Street, Aldeguer Street, Guanco Street, Mapa Street, Ortiz Street, until Rizal/Zamora Street (Burgos Street) and Libertad Plaza. This encompasses a one-kilometer stretch of Iloilo City’s historic business district, including the heritage zone known as Calle Real.
According to Engr. Armil Logarta, MORE Power’s head of Project Development/Management: “The UDS project’s three pivotal phases: Phase 1 involves intricate civil works. Phase 2 centers on electrical works, covering cable laying and termination, and Phase 3 culminates with the removal of existing overhead lines and structures, unlocking the full potential of the UDS project.
“Phase 2 or the actual undergrounding of cables is expected to commence in January 2024 and run until June 2024. Utilizing Horizontal Directional Drilling (HDD), a cutting-edge method for installing underground utilities and plumbing, the UDS project stands apart from traditional methods by eliminating the need for open trenches.”
Take note that this approach ensures minimal disruptions to the downtown area, with construction activities strategically conducted from 7 p.m. to 7 a.m., contributing to a smoother traffic flow during daytime.
Meanwhile, Engr. Bernard Del Castillo, MORE Power VP for Network Operations, said, “The UDS project will eliminate the risks of geckos, birds, and rats approaching overhead lines, ensuring a safer and more reliable electrical infrastructure.”
Another good thing about the UDS project is it eliminates power outages caused by animal intrusion, ballons getting entangled during the Dinagyang Festival and the need for periodic tree trimming, allowing the trees to grow unhindered.
So why was MORE Power, after only three years, able to do what the former defunct power distribution utility did not do in almost a century?
Simply because the UDS project reflects the company’s steadfast commitment to supporting local government initiatives, particularly in preserving the cultural and heritage aspects of the community, according to MORE Power President/CEO Roel Castro.
“I believe there are very few cities in the Philippines that can genuinely boast of having a rich heritage and culture, evident in the edifices and monuments scattered around the city.
“These structures are testaments to the city’s exceptionally rich cultural and historical legacy.”
Of course, “I Am Iloilo City” mayor Jerry Treñas sums up the whole UDS project with these words:
“This enhanced reliability will stimulate economic growth, entice new investments, and cultivate a favorable environment for businesses to flourish.
“The Underground Distribution System (UDS) stands as one of the diverse investments that MORE Power has introduced to the City of Love since commencing its operations in 2020”.
In other words, the removal of above-ground power lines will notably diminish the risk of accidents stemming from adverse weather conditions, fallen trees, and unforeseen circumstances.
This initiative aims to provide uninterrupted power to residences, businesses, hospitals, and schools.
The way MORE Power is doing it, is really quite commendable as there was no traffic disruption and obtrusive diggings on the street, just unnoticeable works along sidewalks, really smooth.
As usual, well played, Nong Moroy./PN
