The Department of Energy (DOE) said it is closely monitoring restoration efforts in Boracay Island and nearby towns after a major power outage struck on Saturday, 13 September, disrupting electricity supply to the country’s premier tourism hub.

The blackout began at 1:37 PM when the Nabas–Unidos 69kV line tripped, isolating the Unidos–Caticlan–Malay and Unidos–Boracay 69kV lines. The incident left Boracay, Malay, and Buruanga without power since 2:30 PM that day.

Initial inspections by the Aklan Electric Cooperative (AKELCO) found that arcing in the 69kV sub-transmission cables near the arrival area of Caticlan Airport, caused by moisture intrusion and leakage, triggered the failure.

The National Grid Corporation of the Philippines (NGCP) and AKELCO immediately mobilized patrols and eight full teams, with reinforcements sent before dawn on 14 September. With clearance from the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP), crews began constructing an 800-meter temporary 69kV overhead bypass line along the airport’s beachside perimeter to restore power supply. The Philippine National Police (PNP) is also providing security at the site.

“Our foremost priority is to restore reliable electricity supply without delay. We are closely monitoring the situation and working hand-in-hand with NGCP, AKELCO, CAAP, local governments, and partner agencies to normalize power supply in Boracay and neighboring towns,” Energy Secretary Sharon S. Garin said.

She added that while the bypass line is a stopgap solution, long-term reliability hinges on two key measures: the immediate repair of AKELCO’s underground cable, and the completion of NGCP’s Nabas–Caticlan–Boracay Transmission Line Project. The Energy Regulatory Commission ordered NGCP in November 2024 to finish the project within this year to secure stable supply for Boracay.

Boracay and Caticlan currently source power from the Nabas Substation through a 69kV overhead line and a submarine cable, infrastructure that DOE noted will require upgrades to meet the island’s rising demand.

Will NGCP and AKELCO’s response and project timelines be enough to secure Boracay’s growing power needs?

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