The Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) has approved the National Grid Corporation of the Philippines’ (NGCP) request to extend the completion deadline of the PHP 4.23-billion Nabas-Caticlan-Boracay Transmission Project to August 31, 2026. This gives the grid operator more time to address the program’s logistical and right-of-way challenges.

In its order dated October 8, 2025 (ERC Case No. 2017-093 RC), the Commission said it found the extension justified after evaluating the project’s progress and the technical constraints faced during construction. The initial deadline was May 31, 2025.

According to the ERC, NGCP’s revised timeline reflects “best-case scenario” estimates that consider site workability, procurement processes, and right-of-way acquisition – which are factors that have affected construction activities in Aklan and nearby areas.

“The Commission finds that adjustment of the timeline is justified, as its completion is necessarily subject to unforeseen factors such as site workability, right-of-way acquisition, procurement processes, and other construction challenges,” the order stated.

The Nabas-Caticlan-Boracay Transmission Project aims to strengthen grid reliability and power supply stability in Aklan, Caticlan, and the island of Boracay. The project involves upgrading transmission lines and reclassifying existing assets such as the Avon-Caticlan 69 kV Line, Caticlan Cable Terminal Station, and the Caticlan-Boracay Submarine Cable as full transmission facilities under NGCP’s management.

The ERC also directed NGCP to immediately assume full responsibility for the operation, maintenance, and management of these reclassified assets, following a recent power interruption that affected over 20,000 customers of the Aklan Electric Cooperative (AKELCO) in mid-September.

While the timeline extension was granted, the ERC warned NGCP that any further delays will be subject to stricter scrutiny and potential penalties. The Commission emphasized the importance of ensuring “reliable, secure, and continuous operation” of the reclassified transmission assets as part of NGCP’s obligations under its franchise and the Electric Power Industry Reform Act (EPIRA).

The Nabas-Caticlan-Boracay line forms part of NGCP’s broader efforts to modernize transmission infrastructure across the Visayas, ensuring stable power delivery to critical economic and tourism zones.

Do you think extending the deadline for NGCP’s Boracay project will help improve long-term grid reliability in the region?

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