People's Domain

09/08/2024

‼️THE COCA-COLA FOODMARKS IN FESTIVE WALK ILOILO‼️

Iloilo City Government and Coca-Cola brings Foodmarks in the UNESCO City of Gastronomy.

Happening today is Coca-Cola Foodmark’s food crawl with Kimpoy Feliciano, Joj Agpangan, and Nana Silayro & Bebu and discover Iloilo’s gastronomic destinations.

07/08/2024

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07/08/2024

Coca-Cola in partnership with the Iloilo City Government is proud to bring Foodmarks in the UNESCO City of Gastronomy.

Indulge in the best Ilonggo dishes paired with a refreshing ice-cold Coca-Cola through epic food crawl through the city's Foodmarks on August 9-10 and August 16-17 at Festive Walk Iloilo. The fun starts 10AM to 9PM.

“Foodmarks” celebrate global "food landmarks" inspired by culture, created with the real magic of Coca‑Cola. More than 400 Foodmarks will debut in cities and neighborhoods around the world, including Iloilo City and consumers can explore in an interactive map as part of a unique partnership with Time Out.

"Foodmarks wield the extraordinary power to transcend borders and tell stories of shared experiences and cultural significance. They are a testament to the universal language of mealtime,” said Elif Kaypak, Global Brand Marketing Lead at The Coca‑Cola Company. “As we unveil the five global iconic Foodmarks and hundreds more in neighborhoods around the world, we celebrate the moments that have shaped culture and connected us through the shared magic of Coca‑Cola."

07/08/2024

City Savings Bank Helps Keep the Bayanihan Spirit Alive Through Brigada Eskwela

As the new school year begins, City Savings Bank (CitySavings), the thrift bank of Aboitiz-led Union Bank of the Philippines (UnionBank), partnered with the Department of Education (DepEd) and other community partners for the weeklong Brigada Eskwela from July 22 to 27, 2024.

The Bank participated in the national kick-off at Carmen National High School in Carmen, Cebu, with the theme "Bayanihan para sa MATATAG na Paaralan." Vice President and former Education Secretary Sara Duterte expressed her gratitude to the teachers, parents, the local government units, and the private sector for their active support of the MATATAG agenda.

Duterte emphasized the importance of Bayanihan and the collective effort needed to ensure the success of the national schools' maintenance week.

This year, CitySavings assisted 240 schools nationwide by providing learning and teaching supplies, painting materials, technology equipment, emergency Go bag kits, and construction materials.

“As bankers and community members, we are committed to the growth and transformation of the communities we serve. We take pride in the positive impact our Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives have on the lives of our teachers, learners, and various stakeholders”, shared CitySavings Chief Executive Officer Lorenzo Ocampo.

Brigada Eskwela, which the Bank has actively supported since 2008, aligns with CitySavings’ goal to co-create a safe, empowered, and more sustainable teaching and learning environment.

06/08/2024

Carelon Global Solutions Philippines’ Iloilo City workforce is currently 3,800. It will be increased 4,000 by the end of the year.

Carelon Iloilo footprint to expand 4,000 workforce with an overall target of 10,000 by the end of 2024 for its Manila and Iloilo facilities.

05/08/2024

MEGAWORLD UPGRADES REWARD FOR CARLOS YULO TO FULLY-FURNSIHED 3BR CONDO + CASH BONUS TOTALING P35M

Following the historic wins of two gold medals of Carlos Yulo in the 2024 Paris Olympics, Megaworld is upgrading its reward for the Filipino gymnast to a bigger three-bedroom unit in one of its premier residential properties inside the 50-hectare McKinley Hill plus special cash bonus because of his exceptional achievement.

The condominium unit will be designed and fully-furnished with appliances, furniture and fixtures. The unit also comes with two balconies, a separate maid’s room, and a parking slot with a total value of P32-million.

Aside from the fully-furnished condo unit, Megaworld will also give a cash bonus of P3-million to Yulo, a special reward for ‘being the first Filipino athlete to get two gold Olympic medals.’

“Since this is a very significant milestone in the history of Philippine sports to have two gold Olympic medals during our 100th year participation as a country in the Olympics, which also coincides with our company’s 35th anniversary this year, we are boosting our reward for Carlos Yulo now totaling to P35-million. He truly deserves this and we will always be proud of him for taking Filipino excellence to the next level,” says Lourdes Gutierrez-Alfonso, president, Megaworld.

Last August 1, Megaworld announced that it is rewarding ‘each Filipino athlete that gets a gold medal in the Olympics’ with a two-bedroom fully-furnished condominium unit amounting to
P24-million.

05/08/2024

The Marriott Bonvoy on Wheels Caravan, which embarked on its culinary journey in Manila, concluded its tour with a spectacular finale at Courtyard by Marriot Iloilo. In partnership with Ford, this unique caravan transformed the Ford Wildtrak into a Marriott Bonvoy vehicle, showcasing its versatility and allure.

Marriot Bonvoy Caravan concluded with Isla Fiesta Iloilo. This was in partnership with Ford which showcased Wildtrak's allure & versatility.

02/08/2024

Baysulangpu Artists Society to open exhibition on August 10, 2024, titled: "Dagta-an: Forming New Perspectives,” at the Thrive Art Projects Gallery at the Shops at Atria, Ayala Malls, Iloilo City.

The exhibit traces the history of the art group Baysulangpu and showcases the works of members who joined as far back as 2001 and the works of recent members. Using the word “dagta-an” which is to stain, to blot, to color in Hiligaynon, the art group is ushering in a new generation of members with fresh perspectives and set of skills to help bring the group forward.

The group’s ethos has always been hard work. This manifests in the group's name “Baysulangpu” an anagram for Hiligaynon “Pulang Subay”. The art group, formed in 2001, has been in the Ilonggo community exhibiting artworks and participating in the community activities.

Due to the socioeconomic landscape of the city and of the time, the group was challenged by the fast churning of members from architecture students, to their friends to the millennial and Gen Z members. The direction of the group moving forward is presented in “Dagta-an” and so it becomes a symbolic passing of the torch to propel the art group forward in a world that is changing fast that the art landscape that seems to perpetually rebuild itself.
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For more information about the exhibition:
Email: [email protected]
Mobile: +639171746766
Website: www.thriveart.org/gallery

01/08/2024

MEGAWORLD TO REWARD EACH FILIPINO GOLD OLYMPIC MEDALIST WITH P24M FULLY-FURNISHED BGC CONDO

Recognizing their extraordinary pursuit of excellence, property giant Megaworld is set to reward each Filipino gold medalist at the 2024 Paris Olympic Games with a fully-furnished two-bedroom residential condominium unit valued at P24-million inside the company’s 50-hectare McKinley Hill township in Taguig City.

The township is home to the famous Venice Grand Canal, one of the most photographed malls in the country today.

“This 2024, we are celebrating our 100th year of participating in the Olympic Games, and what a way to celebrate this milestone than by recognizing the superb competitive spirit of our newest Olympic gold medalist and welcoming them to McKinley Hill. As one of the most celebrated addresses in Fort Bonifacio, McKinley Hill is home to several world-class athletes, including
members of the Philippine national teams for basketball and football. This makes it a perfect home for Filipino champions who live a life of passion and excellence through and through,” says Lourdes T. Gutierrez-Alfonso, president, Megaworld.

The Philippines is represented by 22 athletes in this year’s Olympic Games. This delegation includes EJ Obiena (athletics), Lauren Hoffman (athletics), John Cabang-Tolentino (athletics), Carlos Yulo (gymnastics), Levi Jung-Ruivivar (gymnastics), Aleah Finnegan (gymnastics), Emma Malabuyo (gymnastics), Elreen Ando (weightlifting), John Ceniza (weightlifting), Vanessa Sarno (weightlifting), Joanie Delgaco (Rowing), Eumir Marcial (boxing), Nesthy Petecio (boxing), Carlo Paalam (boxing), Hergie Bacyadan (boxing), Aira Villegas (boxing), Jarod Hatch (swimming), Kayla Sanchez (swimming), Dottie Ardina (golf), Bianca Pagdanganan (golf), Sam Catantan (fencing), and Kiyomi Watanabe (judo).

McKinley Hill is one of four (4) Megaworld township developments within Fort Bonifacio, and currently enjoys the distinction as one of the company’s biggest townships in Metro Manila. It is home to the exclusive McKinley Hill Village, residential condos and villas, office towers, schools, foreign embassies, and the McKinley Hill Football Stadium.

01/08/2024

Park Inn by Radisson Iloilo’s new manager is Gian Carlo Luna

The Park Inn by Radisson Iloilo is delighted to have Mr. Gian Carlo E. Luna as its new Hotel Manager.

With a distinguished career spanning three decades across diverse industries including retail, corporate sales, and hospitality, Mr. Luna brings a wealth of expertise to his new role. His proven track record in sales, marketing, hotel operations, and even the design and manufacturing sector positions him as a versatile and strategic leader.

Prior to joining Park Inn by Radisson Iloilo, Mr. Luna successfully led Golden Sands Destination Resorts, Inc. as General Manager for four years. His accomplishments include driving revenue growth, enhancing market share, and ensuring operational excellence across all departments.

In his new capacity, Mr. Luna will serve as a key leader of the hotel supporting Mr. Sherwin Lucas, Area General Manager of Park Inn by Radisson Iloilo and Park Inn by Radisson Bacolod. His primary responsibilities will encompass elevating guest experiences, optimizing hotel operations, and contributing to the Park Inn by Radisson Iloilo’s overall growth strategy.

Mr. Luna’s appointment underscores Park Inn by Radisson Iloilo’s commitment to delivering exceptional guest experiences and solidifying its position as a premier hotel destination in Iloilo City.

01/08/2024

One of the best way to travel to Negros Occ by Ro-Ro is through F.F. Cruz Shipping Corporation from Ajuy, Iloilo to EB Magalona.

31/07/2024

Sun Life Bags No. 1 Spot in Philippines' MDRT, Sole PH Firm in Global Top 50

Sun Life of Canada (Philippines), Inc. (Sun Life) once again bags the number one spot in the Million Dollar Round Table (MDRT) for having the highest number of financial advisors in this exclusive and prestigious organization. Having 540 financial advisors as members of the MDRT last 2023, Sun Life bested the competition, eclipsing the closest contender by 172 members.

MDRT is an association of life insurance agents and financial advisors that aims to promote ethical standards, best practices, and the promotion of the sales profession for life insurance as well as the health and long-term care industry. To become a member, a financial advisor must pass stringent membership requirements. With this, MDRT has become a hallmark of excellence in the life insurance industry and the financial services sector.

As the only Philippine-based company to land among the top 50 MDRT companies around the world, Sun Life ranks number one in the Philippines and the 41st globally for having the most MDRT financial advisor-members in the life insurance industry.

“Excellence is a cornerstone of Sun Life’s commitment to its clients and the Filipino nation as a whole,” says Alfonso Quitangon, Chief Distribution Officer of Sun Life. “This recognition from such a prestigious and exclusive association inspires us to further outdo ourselves in offering exemplary service and care to our dear Clients.”

Sun Life Philippines CEO & Country Head Benedict Sison likewise lauded the Sun Life advisors who have achieved MDRT status. “They not only bring to life our purpose but do so with such passion and dedication," he said. “They make us proud and remind us that going the extra mile to help Clients secure their future will always be a rewarding pursuit.”

31/07/2024

UnionBank hits P5.1 billion Net Income for 1H2024

UnionBank continues to deliver strong top-line revenues at P37.3 billion in the first half of 2024. This represents an 8.3% increase vs. the same period last year. The growth in net revenues is driven by the Bank's expanding consumer business, higher net interest margin, and growing transaction fees.

Net interest income grew by 14.8% to P27.5 billion driven by a 55bps improvement in net interest margin. The Bank’s net interest margin is among the highest in the banking industry at 5.7% coming from the higher proportion of consumer loans to total loans. Consumer loans now account for 59% of its total loan portfolio, which is nearly 3x higher than the industry average.

The Bank's operating expenses improved by 2.4% year-on-year to P21.6 billion. Following the successful migration of the acquired Citi consumer business into UnionBank’s system in March, the Bank’s IT expenses have declined by close to P1.0 billion quarter-on-quarter. The decline in IT expenses was partly offset by inherent costs related to customer acquisition and revenue growth. New-to-bank customers more than doubled vs. last year’s monthly average. As a result, the Bank now has over 15 million total customers.

Total assets as of June 2024 ended at P1.1 trillion. Total loans and receivables – net reached P514.8 billion, while low-cost CASA deposits at P427.8 billion.

“We continue to post strong topline revenues. Now that we have completed the integration of the acquired Citi consumer business, the Parent Bank’s expenses have naturally declined. As a result, our net income in the second quarter of the year is at P3.1 billion, which is up by more than 50% from the P2.0 billion booked in the previous quarter. Our focus in higher margin consumer segment and continued expansion of our customer base will allow us to sustain this growth momentum in the years to come,” said Manuel R. Lozano, Chief Financial Officer.

30/07/2024

NEGROS POWER’S FRANCHISE TO OPERATE SIGNED BY PBBM.

Republic Act No. 12011 was signed by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., July 26, 2024, just a day before it would have lapsed into law.

It approved the franchise for Negros Electric and Power Corporation (NEPC) to manage and operate the electricity distribution system in Central Negros, guaranteeing continuous and uninterrupted electricity supply across the franchise area.

This legislation will come into effect fifteen days after publication in the Official Gazette or a newspaper of general circulation.

The bill originated in the House of Representatives and was introduced by Negrense Representatives Stephen Paduano, Jose Francisco Benitez, Juliet Marie Ferrer, and Greg Gasataya. It was approved by the House on February 21, 2024, amended by the Senate on May 20, 2024, and further concurred by the House on May 22, 2024, before being forwarded to the Office of the President.

NEPC, also known as Negros Power, is a joint venture company between Primelectric Holdings Inc. (PHI) and Central Negros Electric Cooperative (CENECO), established to enhance power distribution and customer service for over 220 thousand active accounts in the cities of Bacolod, Bago, Talisay, Silay, and municipalities of Murcia, and Don Salvador Benedicto.

Within the agreement, PHI will acquire all power distribution assets of CENECO valued at over two billion pesos, with 70% in cash and the remaining 30% as CENECO's share in NEPC.

The National Electrification Administration (NEA) endorsed CENECO's decision while instructing priority on loan repayments, and employee retirement and separation benefits payments outlined in their Collective Bargaining Agreements.

Negros Power has confirmed the employment of over 200 CENECO employees.

Negros Power and MORE Power have augmented CENECO and jointly conducted preventive maintenance activities, and responded to trouble calls from consumers.

Negros Power also prepared their offices, materials, and equipment needed in anticipation of their upcoming operation this August to ensure a smooth transition.

Expressing gratitude to the President, legislators, consumers, and local leaders in Central Negros for their support, Negros Power President and CEO Roel Castro emphasized the company's dedication to improving electric service and fulfilling promises to consumers.

"We are grateful that our leaders and everyone are supporting this initiative to improve electric service for consumers. We now have the law, it's time to walk the talk, and we are ready to serve and fulfill our promises to the consumers of Central Negros," Castro said.

Negros Power has allocated an initial capital of Two Billion pesos for a five-year plan to rehabilitate and modernize the electric infrastructure, aiming to establish a robust distribution system.

Castro urged ongoing support and collaboration for the planned five-year rehabilitation journey to improve the system and reduce incidents of unscheduled power outages.

"We seek your continued support and cooperation as we commence the five-year journey of continuous rehabilitation to enhance the system and minimize instances of unscheduled power interruptions." he added.

Negros Power will then apply for a Certificate of Public Convenience and Necessity (CPCN) from the Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) to commence official operations.

29/07/2024

ANOTHER CENTURY-OLD EDIFICE IN ILOILO CITY UP FOR RESTORATION - QUEZON HALL OF WVSU.

The Henry Sy Foundation (HSFI), West Visayas State University (WVSU), and SM Foundation have signed a MOA for the adaptive restoration of the century-old Quezon Hall, an initiative to preserve a key educational heritage in Iloilo City.

Read here: https://www.ibsdigital.net/historic-quezon-hall-at-wvsu-set-for-adaptive-restoration/

29/07/2024

The crackdown continues.

29/07/2024

READ: The statement of Department of Tourism-Western Visayas Office on the crocodile sighting in Boracay Island.

10/07/2024

Sun Life and Lifestyle Medical Group Manila announce tie-up to empower Filipinos towards a healthier future

Sun Life of Canada (Philippines), Inc. recently announced their tie-up with Lifestyle Medical Group Manila, a premier healthcare services provider. This collaboration aims to empower Filipinos to prioritize their health and well-being through a holistic approach that combines financial security and high-quality healthcare.

This strategic collaboration brings together the financial security and peace of mind offered by Sun Life Philippines with the top-notch medical care expertise of Lifestyle Medical Group Manila. Through strengthened offerings and solutions, individuals and communities can focus on maintaining good health with greater confidence.

“This collaboration marks a step forward in fulfilling our core purpose – to help Filipinos achieve lifetime financial security and live healthier lives,” said Benedict Sison, CEO and Country Head of Sun Life Philippines.

“By joining forces, Sun Life Philippines and Lifestyle Group Medical Manila will be able to create awareness about illnesses to watch out for, ensure lifestyle modification,
and foster general wellness among our clients.”

Dr. Marc Dexter Macalintal, CEO of Lifestyle Medical Group Manila, echoed this statement, stating, “By collaborating with Sun Life Philippines, we will be able to empower more Filipinos to take control of their overall well-being, and create a healthier future for themselves and their families.”

The strategic tie-up was formalized at an event attended by top executives from both
organizations, including Benedict Sison, Sun Life Philippines CEO and Country Head; Atty. Edgar Tordesillas, Sun Life Philippines General Counsel; Al Quitangon, Sun Life Philippines Chief Distribution Officer; Dr. Marc Dexter Macalintal, Lifestyle Medical Group Manila CEO, Dr. Nicole Anne Buenavista, Lifestyle Medical Group Manila Chief Operating Officer; and Jan Paolo Dipasupil, Lifestyle Medical Group Manila Chief Financial Officer.

05/07/2024

Filinvest bolsters accessibility in Cebu Township, City di Mare

Filinvest, one of the Philippines' leading real estate developers, is investing further in City di Mare (CDM), a global coastal city that fosters a complete modern live-work-play lifestyle cradled by nature, for its accessibility and mobility infrastructure. This
initiative is aimed at enhancing the quality of life for residents and solidifying the city's status as a thriving urban hub.

The commitment is part of a meticulously planned strategy to create a vibrant, sustainable, and inclusive community catering to the diverse needs of its residents. The economic impact on
Cebu is projected to be substantial, creating thousands of new jobs, helping local businesses thrive, and further attracting investments to the region.

"We are thrilled to contribute to Cebu& #39;s growth through this significant investment in City di Mare," said Don Ubaldo, First Vice President for Townships of Filinvest Alabang, Inc. "Our vision is to create a harmonious blend of urban living and natural beauty, offering residents a unique and enriching."

Spanning 58 hectares, CDM stands out as Cebu's premier waterfront community. The development is designed to integrate residential, commercial, and recreational spaces. With a strong focus on sustainability and innovation, CDM is setting new benchmarks for urban living in Cebu.

Accessibility and Mobility

Recognizing the importance of efficient and reliable transportation, Filinvest designed CDM with comprehensive transport solutions to ensure seamless connectivity within and beyond its boundaries.

The community features multiple transportation options, including bus routes, pedestrian-friendly pathways, and a planned integration with Cebu's major transport networks. It boasts of three convenient shuttle buses connecting residents and visitors to key destinations across Cebu, including the north, south, and city center.

CDM is set to enhance its accessibility with several key infrastructure developments. A recently completed traffic intersection at El Pardo Road and Cebu South Coastal Road will significantly improve traffic flow and safety in the area. Additionally, a pedestrian bridgeway, targeted for completion in the first quarter of 2025, will provide a safe crossing for residents and visitors, further integrating the community.

Moreover, the connection of Roads 4, 9, and 10 to Antolihao Road will facilitate smoother traffic flow and better access to various parts of the city. Filinvest is also building a central park, with its target completion set for 2029, which will serve as the community's green heart—offering expansive open spaces, recreational facilities, and serene landscapes for relaxation and social gatherings. These projects underscore Filinvest’s commitment to ensuring CDM is a well-connected and easily navigable community, ensuring that residents and visitors can move easily throughout the area.

"Our goal is to make CDM not just a great place to live, but a community that is easily accessible and seamlessly connected to the rest of Cebu, added Ubaldo. "With these mobility
initiatives, we are setting a new standard for urban living in the region."

CDM also donated motorbikes to the local government for police officers, enhancing local law enforcement capabilities.

Future Outlook

With a strong commitment to both comfort and connectivity, CDM offers a truly integrated living experience. Residents and visitors alike can take advantage of the complimentary public bus system for a limited time, making navigating Cebu a breeze.

As City di Mare evolves, its transportation options will continue to expand, ensuring a seamlessly connected future for this vibrant community.

Filinvest Alabang Inc.'s strategic investment in City di Mare not only reinforces its dedication to sustainable urban development but also positions Cebu as a model for modern, transit-oriented living. This transformative project is poised to drive economic growth and enhance quality of life, securing a prosperous future for Cebu and its residents.

05/07/2024

Enhancing Healthcare Access: TMC Iloilo launches ‘Korean Care and Assistance Hub’

Known as the “City of Love” and a beacon of inclusivity, this city has been a home to different international partnerships, and hence, opening its doors to many foreign nationalities including Koreans. First in its field, The Medical City Iloilo (TMC-Iloilo) pioneers in this initiative as it continuously fosters fellowship and inclusion to Korean partner patients through its Korean Care and Assistance Hub launched on July 1, 2024.

In partnership with the Iloilo Korean United Community Association Incorporated, TMC Iloilo launches a customer service initiative that specifically caters to Korean citizens residing in Western Visayas and neighboring areas who are in need of medical assistance.

Mr. Terry Kim, Chairman of the Iloilo Korean United Community Association Incorporated, shared his enthusiasm towards this great collaboration between their organization and TMC Iloilo. He asserted that “this not just our desire, but our dream to have a Korean Care Hub in Iloilo City. We really appreciate the partnership that we have with TMC Iloilo. This is just the beginning for us to strengthen not just our relationship, but also the kind of care, service and interaction.”

Breaking the barriers of communication and misinformation, relevant TMC Iloilo hospital services are innovated to particularly aid the medical needs of Korean patient partners in the language that they best understand.

TMC Iloilo Korean Care Hub Specialists composed of Red Coat Ambassadors, concierge staff, and admitting personnel have undergone basic training in conversing using the Korean language, which gives them a proficiency in assisting Korean patient partners in their Emergency Room admissions, discharge processes, and outpatient services availment.

Directional signages and essential medical forms are also translated in Hangul to ensure data accuracy and provide ease in the process of filling out forms such as patient information forms, medical prescriptions, Operating Room forms, and informed consent forms.

For further assistance, Korean patient partners are also provided with an OPD Korean Convenience Lane at TMC Iloilo Clinic at Festive Walk Iloilo and an exclusive and dedicated reception area at the TMC Iloilo hospital. Throughout the whole process, from asking for assistance until the patient is discharged from the hospital, TMC Iloilo Korean Care and Assistance Hub facilitates a seamless medical transaction.

“This initiative proves the steadfast commitment of TMC Iloilo towards continuous innovations and developments, and I am so pleased that the TMC value of compassion extends beyond the Filipino people as it will be delivered to our Korean partners as well,” says Dr. Felix Ray Villa, TMC Iloilo Chief Executive Officer. (END)


ABOUT THE MEDICAL CITY ILOILO

TMC Iloilo is one of the five local hospitals of The Medical City brand. Its other hospitals are located in Ortigas, Clark, South Luzon, and Pangasinan.

Entered Iloilo in 2009, it is the first hospital in Iloilo City to introduce the “Patient Partnership” service philosophy, a value of care that focuses on making every patient a partner in their journey towards wellness.

The Medical City is the largest healthcare network that manages Guam Regional Medical City, the first Filipino-owned hospital in the United States.

To learn more about our locations and service, visit www.themedicalcityiloilo.com.

01/07/2024

LOOK: Tribu Pan-ay final rehearsal for the Aliwan Fiesta 2024 shared by Ilonggo award-winning film maker Elvert Bañares.

27/06/2024

The various moniker of Iloilo City.

27/06/2024

MORE Power to Reduce Scheduled Power Interruption Hours on Weekends

As MORE Power approaches its 5th year of rehabilitation activities since beginning operations in 2020, the duration of scheduled power interruptions on weekends will be reduced from 12-13 hours to 8 hours.

Engr. Bernard Bailey Del Castillo, Vice President for the Network Development and Operations Group, stated that the remaining rehabilitation work can now be completed within a maximum of 8 hours on weekends, sparing consumers from experiencing half a day of power interruptions.

“We understand the inconvenience that our consumers have faced with 12-13 hour power interruptions almost every week. That’s why, starting in July 2024, we will shorten the duration of scheduled power interruptions,” said Del Castillo.

Del Castillo also assured customers that they will be informed 3-4 days in advance of any scheduled power interruptions to allow for adequate preparation.

“Although the Magna Carta for Residential Electricity Consumers states that customers should be informed of scheduled power interruptions 48 hours prior to the scheduled power interruption, at MORE Power, we are committed to notifying our consumers 3-4 days in advance, giving them ample time to plan their weekends,” Del Castillo added.

The operations head emphasized that not all scheduled power interruptions are initiated by MORE Power. Several requests come from the National Grid Corporation of the Philippines (NGCP), which typically require 12-13 hours. MORE Power takes advantage of NGCP’s scheduled maintenance works to avoid wasting the long hours of no power in its franchise area.

During weekend power interruptions, MORE Power provides affected customers with free mobile charging and water, especially during the summer when water is scarce.
Del Castillo reiterated that the rehabilitation of facilities to modernize the power grid cannot be done overnight and has taken years to achieve significant progress.

"When we took over, almost all of the electrical facilities throughout the city were either defective or obsolete, requiring the replacement of nearly everything. While we conduct preparatory work through live line method without interruptions on weekdays, kailangan talaga natin na magkaroon ng brownout on weekends para makuha ang mga lumang poste and as we finalize the setup to ensure the safety of our linemen.

In four years of powering Iloilo City’s future, MORE Power has invested heavily in infrastructure upgrades to improve distribution services and drive progress in the city. This includes the 33MVA Diversion Substation, the 30/36 MVA Megaworld Substation, 10/12.4 MVA and 30/36 MVA mobile substations which serve as temporary backups during the total rehabilitation of land-based substations.

MORE Power has replaced and installed over 7,000 poles, installed 45 automatic circuit reclosers and 22 load break switches to isolate and immediately restore power during momentary faults, purchased modern testing equipment, and is working on the ongoing underground distribution system along Calle Real. A total of approximately 50 circuit kilometers of lines were replaced and reconductored with tree wire from 2022 until the end of June 2024. These tree wires are insulated primary lines designed to prevent power interruptions caused by animal intrusion and vegetation.