Darkness and fear sweep Mindanao tonight as linemen race to restore power after 7.6 quake

In the aftermath of the magnitude 7.6 earthquake that jolted Davao Oriental on Friday morning, at least four electric cooperatives and power companies were affected, according to the Department of Energy (DOE).

Energy Secretary Sharon Garin confirmed that the Davao Light and Power Company (DLPC), Cagayan Electric Power and Light Company (CEPALCO), Cotabato Light and Power Company (CLPC), and the Davao Oriental Electric Cooperative (DORECO) were among those impacted by the powerful tremor.

Initial reports showed that DLPC suffered ten substation trips immediately after the quake, plunging several communities into darkness.Both CEPALCO and CLPC reported no visible damage so far, but engineers continue to conduct safety inspections to ensure the integrity of their systems.

Meanwhile, DORECO, which operates closest to the epicenter in Manay, Davao Oriental, is still assessing potential damage to its distribution network and infrastructure.

The National Grid Corporation of the Philippines (NGCP) also confirmed that a few feeders tripped during the strong shaking. Restoration crews have since been deployed, working tirelessly to bring electricity back to affected areas.

Tonight, as darkness and fear blanket parts of Mindanao, families cling to hope and candlelight while linemen and engineers race against time — not only to restore power, but to rekindle a fragile sense of safety and calm in homes still trembling from the day’s devastation.