The islands of Siargao and Bucas Grande are now under a state of calamity because of the prolonged power outage.
The Sangguniang Panlalawigan of Surigao del Norte passed a resolution placing the two areas under a state of calamity following the recommendation of the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (PDRRMC).
According to the provincial government, the declaration was aimed to expedite the release of emergency funds and ensure the swift delivery of critical support to the communities affected.
Based on the resolution, all relevant agencies, local government units, and stakeholders are directed to take immediate and coordinated action to address the situation, ensure the provision of temporary power sources, and expedite the repair of the damaged submarine cable.
The power outage started on December 1, 2024 due to a line fault in the submarine cable, according to the Siargao Electric Cooperative Inc. (SIARELCO).
SIARELCO said divers continue to inspect the 1.9-kilometer portion of the submarine cable to locate the fault, as of Tuesday, December 10.
The power distributor added that more generators sets, with a combined capacity of 16 megawatts, are expected to arrive to help supply electricity to the two islands while submarine cable repairs are underway.
The Office of the Civil Defense (OCD)-Caraga and the PDRRMO have already mobilized essential resources and supplies, including water, fuel, generators, and internet connectivity equipment in response to the blackout.