Power coops told to ensure stable electricity supply

CEBU, Philippines — Department of Energy (DOE) Secretary Alfonso Cusi has directed all private distribution utilities (DUs) and 121 electric cooperatives (ECs) in the country to ensure stable power supply as schools prepare for a blended learning approach in August.

“I have given my order to all cooperatives through National Electrification Administration Administrator Edgardo Masongsong to ensure stable supply of power in their respective franchise areas,” Cusi said in a statement.

He made the call after receiving reports of several power interruptions in rural areas.

“Enrollment turnout for the incoming school year is very good so we must anticipate that power demands of households are met to ensure the smooth implementation of the Department of Education’s distance learning program,” the energy chief said.

Cusi said the impact of power interruptions on distance learning is among the concerns raised during discussions on educational strategies during the coronavirus pandemic.

Part of DepEd’s strategies is remedial, enrichment and advancement classes for summer 2020 that started on May 11, 2020. It included Saturday classes, and will end after a six-week period.

In the DepEd memorandum, schools conducting summer classes were told to utilize distance learning measures until students and teachers are allowed to “leave their homes for school purposes.”

Moreover, Cusi said stable power supply is also vital for businesses, which help the government revive the local economy. KQD (FREEMAN)