The ceremonial installation of the first distribution pole during the site launch of the 22MVA digital substation and warehouse/stockyard facilities of Davao Light and Power Company (Davao Light) in Barangay Magugpo, Tagum City, Davao del Norte on Tuesday signified the imminent availability of the power utility’s services in the First District of the province and the Island Garden City of Samal (IGaCoS).
The ceremony was led by AboitizPower Distribution Utilities Chief Operating Officer Anton Mari Perdices, Davao Light President and Chief Operating Officer Engr. Enriczar Tia, Davao del Norte Governor Edwin Jubahib, and Davao del Norte Second District Representative Jose Manuel Lagdameo.
Residents in the First District of Davao del Norte—particularly in the municipalities of Kapalong, Talaingod, New Corella, San Isidro, Asuncion, and the cities of Tagum and Samal—currently served by the Northern Davao Electric Cooperative (NORDECO), will soon transition to Davao Light’s services.
The 22MVA digital substation, to be constructed on a one-hectare property, will serve as a gateway to Davao Light’s distribution network.
According to Davao Light, the facility is designed to maintain the stability and reliability of the power system, ensuring that electricity flow is safe and suitable for end-users. It will feature automated monitoring and control systems capable of capturing and transmitting real-time data, allowing operations engineers to remotely monitor and respond swiftly to distribution concerns.
In his message, Engr. Tia affirmed Davao Light’s commitment to its new customers under Republic Act No. 12144, which lapsed into law on 6 April 2025. The law expands Davao Light’s franchise area to include Tagum City, IGaCoS, and several municipalities in Davao del Norte and Davao de Oro, authorising the company to take over operations from NORDECO in these areas.
“We understand the challenges you’ve faced. We hear you, and we are here to make a tangible difference. This 22MVA digital substation and accompanying warehouse and stockyard facilities are the first of their kind for Davao Light in the expanded franchise areas, symbolising our immediate commitment and significant investment in your energy future,” Tia said.
Perdices also expressed optimism about the future of Davao Light’s newly franchised areas in Davao del Norte and Davao de Oro.
“With this digital substation, warehouse, and stockyard facilities, Davao Light is more than ready to deliver on its promise of a brighter, more empowered tomorrow,” he said.
Governor Jubahib described the facility as the backbone of an improved power distribution system that is expected to attract investments, strengthen industries, and bring light to schools, clinics, and homes—including the most underserved communities in the province.
“One of the most resounding sentiments we’ve heard from our communities has always been the call for affordable, reliable, and efficient electricity service. For too long, many of our people have struggled to access stable power for their homes, businesses, and livelihoods. We knew that without addressing these concerns, genuine progress would remain out of reach. But today, we say: we have arrived at that turning point,” Jubahib declared.
Representative Lagdameo emphasised that beyond economic development, access to reliable electricity is fundamental to quality of life in the modern age.
“It will allow our communities to harness essential services such as education and healthcare. Electricity doesn’t just turn the lights on—it keeps our homes warm, our livelihoods running, and our industries growing,” he said.
