By Mariela Angella Oladive
During a 12-hour power outage on April 21, 2024, caused by scheduled maintenance, Iloilo City’s electricity distributor MORE Power provided free cold water for washing and bathing to affected consumers.
Over the following weekend, responding to consumer needs, MORE Power also offered free charging for phones and gadgets.
“In partnership with Iloilo City Mayor Jerry P. Trenas, we’re supplying free water to the affected barangays during the power interruption. We’re also providing free charging via a mobile generator for cellphones and gadgets. These actions are our way of easing the inconvenience caused by the maintenance,” said Roel Castro, President and CEO of MORE Power, who personally supervised the team on site.
MORE Power said it strives to lessen the impact of the scheduled power interruption on consumers.
In collaboration with the Federation Fire Iloilo, they arranged for water delivery to the affected barangays from 9 a.m. until power restoration. They also deployed a mobile generator set to strategic locations for consumers to charge electronic devices.
The initiatives by MORE Power have been warmly received by local officials.
“On behalf of my Barangay Council and residents of Brgy. Maria Clara, we express our heartfelt thanks for the water supply. It’s a significant aid for our constituents,” said Barangay Captain Gerardo Macoco of Maria Clara, City Proper.
Barangay Captain Marcelo Alag of Villa Anita, City Proper, also praised MORE Power: “Even during the power outage, MORE Power provided water, which is a vital necessity for my constituents. Their assistance is greatly valued.”
Similar appreciation came from Wenceslao Simpas Jr. of Barangay Osmeña; Judy Navales of Rizal Pala Pala II; Eman Bayona of Rizal Pala Pala I; and Marebel Dariagan of Cochero, all in City Proper.
Resident Peter Parcon was thankful for the water, which sufficed for three days: “We’re grateful for the water provided. It’s been a significant help.”
Barangay Captain Herman Kilayko of Infante, Molo, acknowledged MORE Power’s infrastructure efforts: “Thank you, MORE Power, for repairing the leaning poles and fixing the tangled wires, enhancing safety for our residents.”
The power interruption is part of MORE Power’s five-year rehabilitation plan, expected to conclude in 2025.
