Northern Samar Moves to Cut Brownouts

Posted on Jan. 25, 2026 at 10:02 pm

CATARMAN, Northern Samar — To address the frequent power interruptions and improve the stability of electricity supply in the province, the Provincial Economic Development and Investment Promotions Office (PEDIPO), in collaboration with the National Grid Corporation of the Philippines (NGCP), has initiated a coordination meeting with local government units for the proposed transmission loop Catarman-Allen- Victoria.

Local officials stated that through this project, the power line system would be enhanced with the addition of circuit breakers and other protective devices. These additions will allow the power system to automatically isolate faulted sections, preventing disruption in the electrical supply and avoiding power line tripping.

Consultations with officials from the concerned LGUs focused on discussing technical aspects of the project, identifying locations, determining land use, and securing necessary support from local governments to facilitate project implementation.

This initiative is part of efforts to establish a resilient power network in Northern Samar that can withstand failures and be easily adapted.

In a coordination meeting with the Local Government Unit of Victoria, Mayor Joey Ardales and representatives from the substation project site, along with the substation project site access road, finalized details and preparations for constructing a substation on a five-hectare lot in Victoria.

The Victoria substation was designed to redirect power during system breaks, particularly when the Pala, LasCara Substation is affected, thereby enhancing power reliability in the area.

Separately, a coordination meeting was held between the Local Government Unit of Catarman, led by Mayor Dianne Rosales, and the NEA to discuss a proposal for a two-hectare switching station.

The new facility is expected to enhance system flexibility, benefiting not only Catarman but also neighboring municipalities by providing a more stable electricity supply.

Officials highlighted that the transmission loop on the line will facilitate the integration of renewable energy sources and prepare Northern Samar’s power system for future demand growth.

The Provincial Government of Northern Samar reiterated its commitment to strengthening power infrastructure, reducing electricity interruptions, and improving service delivery across the province.

Photo: LGU Officials meet with PEDIPO and NGCP to plan the Catarman-Allen -Victoria Transmission Loop to improve power reliability. (Photo courtesy: PLGU Northern Samar)