The Sangguniang Panlalawigan of Surigao del Norte has placed Siargao Island and Bucas Grande Island under a State of Calamity due to a prolonged power outage caused by severe damage to the submarine cable that supplies electricity to the islands.
The declaration was made through Resolution No. 502, Series of 2024, sponsored by Board Member Kaser B. Recabo.
The power outage, which began on December 1, 2024, has disrupted daily life, paralyzed essential services, and severely impacted key economic sectors such as tourism and fishing.
The Siargao Electric Cooperative (SIARELCO) reported that the submarine cable sustained substantial damage, the exact location of which has yet to be identified, complicating repair efforts and prolonging the crisis.
During an emergency meeting on December 5, 2024, the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (PDRRMC) passed a resolution recommending the State of Calamity declaration.
This prompted the provincial board to act, allowing the provincial government and relevant agencies to mobilize resources and implement relief, recovery, and rehabilitation measures for affected communities.
The declaration enables access to calamity funds, expedited procurement of temporary power sources, and immediate actions to repair the damaged submarine cable.
These measures are in line with Republic Act No. 10121, or the Philippine Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Act of 2010, which mandates proactive disaster management to mitigate impacts on affected populations.
Local government units and national agencies have been directed to coordinate efforts in addressing the power crisis. The resolution also underscores the urgency of restoring electricity to avoid further economic losses and ensure the well-being of residents. Relief operations are expected to focus on the most severely affected communities.
Provincial Governor Robert Lyndon S. Barbers approved the resolution, supported by Vice Governor Eddie D. Gokiangkee, Jr., who certified its correctness, and Board Secretary Sherrylis Abanza, who attested to its authenticity. The declaration will remain in effect until power is fully restored to the islands.
Residents and business owners, particularly in the tourism and fishing industries, have expressed concerns over the prolonged outage’s impact on their livelihoods.
The provincial government has called on the Department of Energy and other concerned agencies to expedite repairs and provide sustainable solutions to ensure a swift return to normalcy.