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The Davao Consumer Movement (DCM) has lauded recent developments that the group says bring the Davao Region closer to long-awaited power reforms in electricity distribution, particularly in Davao del Norte and Davao de Oro.
In a statement, the group cited the November 24, 2025 hearing by the Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) on the Certificate of Public Convenience and Necessity (CPCN) as a crucial step toward improved service reliability and efficiency across the region.
Path Toward Expanded Power Coverage
The CPCN, once approved, will authorize Davao Light and Power Company (Davao Light) to formally extend its franchise into areas currently under the Northern Davao Electric Cooperative (NORDECO). The expansion is provided under Republic Act 12144, signed earlier this year.
The law grants Davao Light the right to serve Tagum City, the Island Garden City of Samal, Asuncion, Kapalong, New Corella, Talaingod, and San Isidro in Davao del Norte, as well as the entire province of Davao de Oro. These are areas that have long complained about unreliable electricity and slow service response.
According to DCM, Davao Light’s entry is expected to deliver more stable and affordable power supply, better customer service, and enhanced support for local economic growth. These improvements are essential for sustaining business confidence and household welfare in one of Mindanao’s most dynamic growth corridors.
Calls for Urgency and Accountability
DCM also praised local chief executives and business leaders who attended the ERC hearing, noting that their participation underscored the broad public support for improved energy governance. “We commend our leaders for amplifying the voice of consumers, whom NORDECO has continued to dismiss and ignore,” the group said.
However, the movement expressed disappointment over the ERC’s decision to reschedule the next CPCN hearing for January 13, 2026, rather than holding it within the year. The two-month delay, it said, prolongs the community’s wait for improved power services. “We understand the realities of bureaucracy, but such postponements hinder true progress,” DCM added.
Provincial Support for Transition
On the same day as the ERC hearing, the Davao del Norte Sangguniang Panlalawigan Committee of the Whole approved a resolution opposing NORDECO’s bid for franchise renewal. Authored by Board Member Al David Uy, the measure cited public dissatisfaction over recurring power interruptions and billing concerns, especially from Samal Island residents. The resolution now moves to the full provincial board for final action.
DCM likewise welcomed the passage of Resolutions 1181 and 1182, both supporting a smooth transition under RA 12144.
Resolution 1181 calls for an expedited and orderly handover of electrical services to Davao Light, while Resolution 1182 urges Congress to consider NORDECO’s reliability and pricing issues when evaluating its franchise renewal request.
More Reliable and More Affordable Power
The consumer group said the ongoing policy shifts reflect a collective demand for accessible, affordable, and dependable electricity—a foundation for sustainable regional growth.
“These efforts are ultimately about empowering communities and ensuring that residents finally receive the quality of service they deserve,” DCM said.
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