By William Agda
Electricity has been restored to Siargao and Bucas Grande Islands following the repair of a damaged submarine cable that caused a 13-day blackout. The Siargao Electric Cooperative (SIARELCO) reported that the fault in the 34.5 kV submarine cable connecting Barangay Cagdianao in Claver, Surigao del Norte, to Barangay Doña Helen in Socorro, Siargao Island, was caused by wear and tear.
The damage, identified on December 1, 2024, was attributed to sea currents moving the cable against sharp-edged corals, which compromised its insulation. The damaged section was lifted from the seabed on December 12 for repairs.
To address the power shortage during the repair period, a 4.4-megawatt generator from Lanao del Norte was deployed to Siargao on December 11, providing temporary electricity. Meanwhile, the Sangguniang Panlalawigan of Surigao del Norte declared a state of calamity on December 10, allowing the release of emergency funds to assist affected residents.
The submarine cable, constructed in 1983 with funding from the National Electrification Administration (NEA), spans 10 kilometers and has faced previous incidents, including damage from an anchor strike in 2010.
NEA Administrator Antonio Mariano Almeda acknowledged the efforts of SIARELCO and its stakeholders in restoring power. With repairs completed, normal electricity supply has resumed in Siargao and Bucas Grande Islands, providing relief to residents and businesses in the area.