By David Vera
A total of 86 linemen from electric cooperatives in Eastern Visayas have been deployed to Catanduanes to assist in restoring power after the devastation caused by Super Typhoon Pepito (international name: Man-yi). The deployment, part of the Task Force Kapatid Program, emphasizes solidarity among electric cooperatives during natural disasters.
The linemen, split between Cebuano-speaking areas in southern and western Leyte and Waray-speaking regions of Leyte and Samar, bring not only their expertise but also relief supplies, including food, water, and clothing, provided by employees of the Leyte III Electric Cooperative (Leyeco III).
The Don Orestes Romualdez Electric Cooperative (Dorelco) announced that their linemen will remain in Catanduanes until December 7 to ensure the restoration of damaged power lines. Meanwhile, the Leyte II Electric Cooperative (Leyeco II) stated their commitment to accelerating power restoration on the island, working closely with the First Catanduanes Electric Cooperative.
This mission reflects a sense of reciprocity, as Eastern Visayas electric cooperatives had been recipients of similar support through the Task Force Kapatid Program after Super Typhoon Yolanda in 2013. The participating cooperatives include Dorelco, Leyeco II, Leyeco III, and others from Leyte, Samar, Biliran, and Southern Leyte provinces.
The deployment highlights the resilience and camaraderie among electric cooperatives as they work to rebuild infrastructure and restore essential services to affected communities.