MAJOR developments now pave the way for long-awaited improvements in electricity service for Davao del Norte and Davao de Oro.
On Nov. 24, 2025, the Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) conducted a hearing on the Certificate of Public Convenience and Necessity (CPCN). This permit ensures that only qualified companies can operate power services that genuinely serve the public interest.
Once granted, the CPCN will allow Davao Light to legally expand into new areas. Under Republic Act 12144, the power distributor will extend its franchise to Tagum City, 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.
For consumers, this means that households and businesses in the expanded franchise area will soon gain access to Davao Light’s services – reliable and affordable electricity, improved customer service, and stronger support for local growth.
We commend the local chief executives and business leaders who attended the hearing for amplifying the voice of consumers, whom the Northern Davao Electric Cooperative (Nordeco) has continued to dismiss and ignore.
At the same time, we express disappointment that the second hearing has been scheduled for January 13, 2026, instead of December this year. While less than two months away, this delay prolongs the hardship of consumers awaiting a change in power service providers. We understand the realities of government bureaucracy, but such postponements hinder true progress.
Meanwhile, we commend the Davao del Norte Sangguniang Panlalawigan Committee of the Whole for passing, on November 24, 2025, a resolution opposing NORDECO’s franchise renewal bid. The resolution will now move to the provincial board for deliberation.
The measure, filed last month by Board Member Al David T. Uy, cited mounting complaints from residents, particularly in the Island Garden City of Samal, over what they described as poor service from Nordeco.
We thank the seven board members who voted against Nordeco’s franchise renewal bid. Your decision reflects the voice of consumers in Davao del Norte and aligns with the call for change and progress in the province’s power service.
Lastly, we commend the Sangguniang Panlalawigan for passing two resolutions – 1181 and 1182 – that will further advance the efforts to support the power transition in Davao del Norte.
Resolution 1181 calls for urgent action for a smooth, orderly, and uninterrupted transition of electrical services in Davao del Norte pursuant to Republic Act No. 12144.
Resolution 1182 expresses dissatisfaction with Nordeco’s electric distribution services due to their unreliability despite expensive charges. It requests the House of Representatives and the Senate to seriously take these sentiments into consideration in evaluating its application for franchise renewal.
Ultimately, these developments are about ensuring reliable, affordable electricity for the people of Davao del Norte and Davao de Oro, empowering communities to share in their provinces’ growth. #
Ryan Amper
Convenor
Davao Consumer Movement
0905-5634083
