Surigao City – The Sangguniang Panlalawigan of Surigao del Norte has declared the entirety of Siargao Island and Bucas Grande Island under a state of calamity during its 116th Regular Session held on December 9, 2024. This decision comes in response to a prolonged power outage affecting the islands since December 1, caused by severe damage to the submarine cable supplying electricity.
The resolution, sponsored by Board Member Kaiser B. Recabo Jr., was unanimously approved by the legislative body. The declaration enables the provincial government and concerned agencies to utilize calamity funds and mobilize resources for immediate relief and rehabilitation efforts.
Immediate Relief Efforts
On December 9, a C-130 plane of the Philippine Air Force landed at Sayak Airport in Del Carmen, Siargao Island, carrying 30 generator sets and 300 solar panels. These power sources will be distributed across the island’s towns to alleviate the ongoing crisis.
The generator sets and solar panels provide a temporary reprieve for residents and businesses suffering from the outages caused by a suspected fault in the submarine cable connecting the island to mainland Mindanao. This immediate intervention complements efforts to address long-term solutions for restoring power.
Impact of the Power Outage
The disruption has severely impacted residents’ daily lives, paralyzed essential services, and hampered local industries, including tourism and fishing. Siargao Electric Cooperative (SIARELCO) reported significant damage to the submarine cable, with its exact location yet to be determined. The extensive repairs required are expected to take time and substantial resources.
“This has been a long-standing issue for Siargao,” lamented Senator Juan Miguel Zubiri, reflecting on his personal experiences with the island’s unreliable power supply. He emphasized that the current situation is “untenable” and called on the Department of Energy (DOE) and the National Electrification Administration (NEA) to implement sustainable solutions.
Proposed Solutions and Assistance
Provincial Governor Robert Lyndon S. Barbers, who approved the resolution, urged all stakeholders to act promptly in addressing the crisis. The Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (PDRRMC) had earlier recommended the declaration of a state of calamity, underscoring the necessity of coordinated action.
The resolution also highlighted the need for temporary power sources, such as generators, to provide immediate relief. While some board members proposed alternative solutions, debates arose over the best approach to utilize calamity funds effectively, with some questioning the focus on short-term fixes rather than long-term investments, like repairing or replacing the submarine cable.
Political Undercurrents
The discussions surrounding the resolution were not devoid of political undertones, as criticisms surfaced over alleged partisanship in decision-making. Detractors claimed that certain board members prioritized political alliances over practical solutions, potentially delaying much-needed assistance to the islands.
Call for Unity and Action
The declaration of a state of calamity underscores the need for unified action among government agencies, local leaders, and stakeholders. The restoration of power and basic services remains critical to the recovery of the islands and their residents’ livelihoods.
As Siargao and Bucas Grande grapple with this crisis, the recent delivery of generator sets and solar panels brings hope for a brighter and more resilient future for its communities. The government continues to face the challenge of delivering timely and effective solutions while ensuring transparency and accountability in the use of public funds.