The Davao Consumer Movement (DCM) earlier this week hailed several major developments that bring Davao Region closer to long-awaited reforms in electricity service, particularly in Davao del Norte and Davao de Oro.
In a statement, the group said the November 24, 2025 hearing conducted by the Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) on the Certificate of Public Convenience and Necessity (CPCN) marked a crucial step toward improving power distribution in the region.
The group explained that the CPCN, once granted, will authorize Davao Light and Power Company (Davao Light) to formally expand its operations into new areas previously served by the Northern Davao Electric Cooperative (NORDECO).
Under Republic Act 12144, Davao Light’s franchise expansion will cover 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.
According to DCM, the expansion promises more reliable and affordable electricity, improved customer service, and stronger support for economic development across the expanded franchise area.
The group also lauded local chief executives and business leaders who attended the ERC hearing, saying their presence strengthened the push for better services after years of alleged neglect by NORDECO.
“We commend our leaders for amplifying the voice of consumers, whom NORDECO has continued to dismiss and ignore,” the statement read.
DCM, however, expressed disappointment over the ERC’s decision to schedule the second CPCN hearing on January 13, 2026, instead of December this year.
While the delay is less than two months, the group said it unnecessarily extends the struggles of residents awaiting improved power services.
“We understand the realities of bureaucracy, but such postponements hinder true progress,” the group noted.
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.
The measure was authored by Board Member Al David Uy, who cited mounting public dissatisfaction, particularly from residents of the Island Garden City of Samal—over persistent service issues.
The resolution now advances to the full provincial board for deliberation.
The consumer group also welcomed the passage of Resolutions 1181 and 1182, which support the transition of power services under RA 12144.
Resolution 1181 calls for swift and orderly action to ensure a smooth and uninterrupted transition of electrical services in Davao del Norte while Resolution 1182 expresses dissatisfaction over NORDECO’s reliability issues and high charges and urges Congress to consider these concerns when evaluating the cooperative’s application for franchise renewal.
DCM emphasized that all these developments are aimed at securing reliable and reasonably priced electricity for communities in Davao del Norte and Davao de Oro access that is vital for household welfare, economic growth, and the region’s long-term progress.
“These efforts are ultimately about empowering communities and ensuring that residents finally receive the quality of service they deserve,” the group said.
