^{Photo credit: Bombo Radyo Gensan}

Aiming to address persistent power disruptions and high rates in the SOCCSKSARGEN region, Ignite Power & Energy Corp. has submitted a proposal to invest up to PHP 10 billion in South Cotabato Electric Cooperative II (SOCOTECO II) to modernize and operate its electricity distribution system.

Ignite Power is a joint venture between Razon-owned Primelectric Holdings and former Senator Manny Pacquiao’s MP Holdings, with Primelectric holding a 70% stake and MP Holdings, 30%. Under the proposal, SOCOTECO II would retain its cooperative identity, board, and member-consumer ownership.

“They just received our proposal. If successful this will be our fourth DU to extend our assistance to bring better services to their existing customers,” Primelectric president and chief executive Roel Castro said.

Speaking during a press conference at the Grand Summit on January 29, 2026, Senator Manny Pacquiao emphasized that SOCOTECO II will continue to exist as a cooperative and will retain its identity, management structure, and mandate to serve its member-consumers.

SOCOTECO II serves General Santos City, Sarangani province, and the municipalities of Tupi and Polomolok in South Cotabato. Key challenges in the region include frequent power outages, low voltage in remote areas, aging infrastructure, and high system losses. The joint venture aims to modernize the system and lower consumer power rates to levels among the most competitive in the Philippines.

Ignite Power, which operates More Electric and Power Corp. in Iloilo City, Negros Power and Electric Corp. in Negros Occidental, and Bohol Light Co. Inc. in Tagbilaran City, brings experience in reducing system losses, improving response times, and enhancing customer service through digital platforms.

Company officials stressed that the partnership does not constitute privatization of SOCOTECO II. Any rate adjustments would remain under the supervision of the Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC), with no automatic increases. Approval from member-consumer owners would be required through a referendum, ensuring transparency and accountability.

If approved, the joint venture is expected to support regional development, attract further investment, create jobs, and position SOCCSKSARGEN as a more investment-ready area.

Could this joint venture finally bring more reliable and affordable electricity to SOCCSKSARGEN? How might it shape local economic growth and investor confidence?

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