About 40 percent of Masbate Electric Cooperative’s (Maselco) distribution lines were damaged by Severe Tropical Storm Opong (Bualoi), the cooperative reported Monday.
Repairs are being prioritized in Masbate City, with power restoration expected within a week.
“For other affected areas, restoration may take up to 30 days, depending on the extent of the damage,” Maselco said in a social media post, noting that road blockages and communication issues hamper full assessment.
To fast-track recovery, electric cooperatives from the Bicol region have been deployed to assist under Task Force Kapatid, a bayanihan program where neighboring cooperatives send linemen to disaster-hit areas.
Maselco said it continues to address material and logistical shortages with the help of its partner cooperatives.
“We appreciate your continued patience and cooperation as we work tirelessly to restore electricity to our communities,” the post added.