Davao Light and Power Company (Davao Light) officially assumed control of electric distribution services across the entire Island Garden City of Samal (IGaCoS) on Wednesday, marking the start of a new chapter in the island’s power sector.
The takeover followed the lawful turnover of distribution assets previously operated by Northern Davao Electric Cooperative, Inc. (NORDECO), facilitated by the Sheriff of the Regional Trial Court-Panabo Branch 4.
Court records show the handover stemmed from a January 23, 2026 ruling granting Davao Light possession of NORDECO’s assets in IGaCoS. On February 19, 2026, the court sheriff served NORDECO with a Notice to Vacate along with a Writ of Possession, paving the way for the transition.
Davao Light’s expanded franchise, authorized under Republic Act No. 12144, covers IGaCoS, the rest of Davao del Norte, and Davao de Oro.
The Supreme Court affirmed the law’s legality in a January 14, 2026 decision, upholding Davao Light’s authority to assume control.
The Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) also issued a provisional Certificate of Public Convenience and Necessity (CPCN), allowing the company to operate in the covered areas in the interest of public service.
Addressing questions about whether Davao Light and NORDECO will operate in parallel, Davao Light President and Chief Operating Officer Engr. Enriczar Tia clarified that there is nothing in the Supreme Court resolution that authorizes parallel operation.
“We respect NORDECO’s perspective, but there is nothing in the Supreme Court resolution that authorizes parallel operation. NORDECO’s petition sought to extend its term before Congress expanded Davao Light’s franchise, but this was refuted and dismissed by the Supreme Court,” Tia said in a press conference.
With the transition now in effect, Davao Light will begin implementing system improvements to ensure more reliable and efficient electric service for Samal residents and businesses.
A Customer Service Center has been opened at IGaCoS Commercial Center, P-6 Sitio Kaimito, Barangay Miranda, Babak District, and a 24/7 hotline is active to address consumer concerns during the transition.
While Davao Light remains open to constructive dialogue with NORDECO regarding other areas covered by the franchise expansion, the company emphasized that it will operate independently in IGaCoS, adhering to court directives and prioritizing stability, continuity, and dependable electric service for the island city.
