ENERGY BOOST. Maguindanao Electric Cooperative (Magelco) general manager Ashary Maongco speaks during the switching on and energization of 13.2-kilovolt distribution lines to the towns of Datu Odin Sinsuat, Upi, and Datu Blah Sinsuat and also the groundbreaking (inset) for the construction of 5MVA sub-station from Upi to Datu Blah Sinsuat towns on Thursday (April 15, 2021). The power expansion projects are seen to improve power supply to the towns in the first congressional district of the province. (Photos courtesy of Magelco)
COTABATO CITY - Officials of the Maguindanao Electric Cooperative (Magelco) on Friday assured constituents of the province of a steady power supply for Ramadan.
“No power outages will be experienced as Muslims need it most as they perform Ramadan fasting-related activities,” said Ashary Maongco, Magelco general manager.
Fasting for the annual observance of Ramadan started April 13 and is expected to end on May 11.
Maongco made the assurance after the completion of a major project that improved energy distribution to three adjoining towns of Datu Odin Sinsuat, Upi, and Datu Blah Sinsuat, all in Maguindanao.
On Thursday, the power firm switched on the Capiton-Nuro, Upi 13.2-kilovolt (kV) distribution lines that will stabilize power supplies to the three municipalities.
On the same day, Magelco has started the construction of the 5-megavolt amperes (MVA) power substation dedicated to Upi and Datu Blah towns to prevent recurring power outages.
“This will further improve power supply connections in these areas,” Maongco said, adding power distribution will only be hampered if there are disruptions beyond the cooperative’s control.
He noted that the new distribution lines were an undertaking of Magelco and the Japan International Cooperation Agency.
“Magelco replaced the existing undersized cable wires constructed in the 1970s,” Maongco said.
He said the increasing demand for energy in Datu Blah Sinsuat town prompted Magelco to install three-phase lines to supply power to its business establishments, especially ice plants.
“The conversion needs huge amount from the self-funded rehabilitation of the coop through its good materials management program,” he said.
Magelco is also fast-tracking another milestone project that will be energized this month involving the 50-footer concrete pole 13.2 kV distribution lines from Sultan Kudarat town’s 10MVA power substation in Barangay Simuay to Barangay Sarmiento and Polloc Port, both in Parang town. (PNA)
