Negros Power Works Around the Clock to Restore Electricity After Typhoon Tino
When Super Typhoon Tino struck Central Negros, it left behind destruction that plunged thousands of homes and businesses into darkness. Yet amid the chaos, one thing was clear: Negros Electric and Power Corporation (Negros Power) was determined to restore electricity, no matter how tough the path ahead.
Power Restoration as a Top Priority
Negros Power assured the public that restoring power is its top mission. In a recent press briefing, company officials provided a clear overview of the damage caused by the typhoon and shared updates on their recovery efforts. Despite the enormous challenges, the situation remains manageable as teams continue to work hard to restore power to homes, hospitals, and essential facilities.
At the storm’s peak, all five subtransmission lines lost power, impacting 11 substations. Out of 47 major feeders, 35 were knocked out, leaving most of Bacolod, Talisay, Silay, Murcia, Bago, and Don Salvador Benedicto without electricity.
Massive Damage to Power Infrastructure
According to Negros Power’s Typhoon Contingency Dashboard, around 217,000 customers—or about 87 percent of their total consumers—experienced power interruptions as strong winds toppled electric poles and damaged distribution lines.
Chief Operating Officer and Chief Technical Officer Engr. Bernard Bailey Del Castillo said that 77 restoration teams were quickly sent to the affected cities and towns. These crews face harsh conditions, from blocked roads to fallen trees, yet they continue to safely and efficiently reconnect power.
“Our teams have been working nonstop since the typhoon hit,” Del Castillo said. “We are focusing on hospitals, water systems, and emergency facilities while gradually restoring power to residential areas as conditions improve. We truly appreciate everyone’s patience and understanding as we carry out these round-the-clock operations.”
Clearing and Restoration Go Hand in Hand
To speed up recovery, Negros Power is carrying out clearing and restoration work simultaneously across Central Negros. Clearing operations involve removing vegetation, fixing downed wires, and addressing structural hazards before re-energizing any area.
Del Castillo explained that no area will be reconnected until clearing is finished to ensure safety. “We follow strict safety protocols because when power is restored, it must be safe for both our consumers and our personnel,” he emphasized.
A Glimpse at the Extent of the Damage
The company’s damage assessment showed the level of destruction caused by Typhoon Tino. Across the service areas, Negros Power recorded:
- 271 damaged conductors
- 96 broken poles
- 23 destroyed crossarms
- 15 shattered insulators
- 201 cases of vegetation obstruction due to fallen trees and debris
Bacolod City was the most affected, with 175 conductors damaged and 65 poles toppled, disrupting several main distribution lines.
Gradual Progress in Power Restoration
Despite the widespread damage, Negros Power teams have made steady progress in restoring electricity. Here’s the latest status by area:
- Burgos Feeders: Energization increased from 46 percent to 82 percent
- Mountain View Feeders: MF4 is now at 5 percent energized, while MF5 is fully restored
- Talisay Feeders: Progressed from 9 percent to 20 percent energized
- Reclamation Feeders: RF2 and RF5 fully restored, while portions of RF1 and RF4 are reconnected
These gradual improvements indicate that restoration work is progressing smoothly despite rugged terrain and weather conditions.
Dedicated Crews Working Day and Night
Even under harsh conditions, Negros Power linemen remain active, repairing poles and connecting lines, often at night. Mobile warehouses and support vehicles have been placed at strategic locations to ensure crews have the materials they need to continue working.
To help consumers, Negros Power also maintains 24-hour customer service hotlines and continues to provide real-time updates on its official social media pages.
A Call for Public Cooperation
As restoration efforts continue, Negros Power urges everyone to stay alert and report any fallen wires or visible electrical hazards. This not only speeds up the process but also helps keep everyone safe.
Del Castillo expressed the company’s gratitude to the people of Central Negros for their ongoing support and understanding. “We know how important electricity is, especially in tough times like this,” he said. “Every light we restore brings another family closer to safety and normalcy.”
Hope Shines Bright in Central Negros
The road to complete restoration is long, but the commitment of the Negros Power teams shows that the lights will shine again across Central Negros. Each repaired line, each reconnected home, and each glowing streetlight represent not just progress, but resilience and hope for communities recovering after the storm.
Negros Power’s message is clear: no matter how dark the night, they are working tirelessly to bring back the light.
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