Concerns over possible changes in electric service coverage in Mangaldan remain under discussion as consultations continue regarding a proposal to shift the town’s power distribution from Central Pangasinan Electric Cooperative to Dagupan Electric Corporation.
According to DECORP Chief Operating Officer Randy Castillan, the proposal is still in its early stages and no final decision has been made on whether the transfer of service coverage will proceed.
Public hearings are currently being conducted by the Mangaldan Sangguniang Bayan following the initial consultation held on May 21, with additional sessions expected in the coming weeks.
Castillan explained that an electric franchise serves as government authorization for a utility provider to operate within a designated area. He noted that power distributors cannot simply expand or transfer operations without approval from the proper authorities, as franchises are granted and regulated by Congress.
He also cited a 2024 Supreme Court ruling stating that electric franchises are not exclusive rights but privileges granted by the state, which may be amended, expanded, or revoked through legal processes.
Among the issues being discussed is the possibility of addressing distribution “gaps” in some areas of Pangasinan should the expansion move forward.
However, Castillan emphasized that even if approved, any transition would take time because utility providers would still need to submit development and rehabilitation plans to regulators and lawmakers.
He pointed to the earlier rehabilitation of the power distribution system in Manaoag as an example, noting that the process took several years before improvements were fully implemented.
For now, both residents and officials await the outcome of the ongoing consultations and deliberations involving the local government and concerned agencies.
–Ahikam Pasion
Image from: Atty. Johnny Cabrera