DOE vows to help MORE Power upgrade city’s distribution grid

By Francis Allan L. Angelo

 

The Department of Energy (DOE) vowed to help MORE Electric and Power Co. (MORE Power) modernize the distribution system of Iloilo City.

In a visit to MORE Power’s corporate office in Iloilo City on Monday, DOE Usec. Emmanuel Juaneza, who hails from Arevalo, Iloilo City, said he was impressed by the distribution utility’s efforts to upgrade Iloilo City’s power supply system since taking over in February 2020.

Usec. Juaneza is married to Alma Juaneza, an executive assistant of Iloilo City Mayor Jerry Treñas. They also visited MORE Power’s control center, trading room, and warehouse.

Juaneza and Iloilo City lone district Rep. Julienne Baronda were accompanied by MORE Power President and COO Roel Z. Castro in inspecting the modern meters and other equipment that the firm is installing in the city’s distribution grid.

Castro also presented to them MORE Power’s modernization plans in the next five years.

“MORE Power showed us the changes it has done so far and the steps taken to improve supply reliability. MORE is moving towards upgrading and stepping up for the convenience of the customers,” Juaneza said.

Juaneza said he was also impressed by MORE Power’s aim to connect 30,000 households in the city to supply grid, which jives with the Duterte administration’s electrification program under the leadership of Energy Sec. Alfonso Cusi.

“I am glad that we were shown the new meters, the process of changing old meters from previous franchise holder, and the relocation and replacement of old poles,” he added.

The DOE also assured its help in MORE Power’s plan to procure competitive and stable power supply to bring down the cost of power and ensure reliability in the long run.

Rep. Baronda thanked MORE Power for “working tirelessly to upgrade the electric distribution systems and facilities of our city.”

“Thank you to Mr. Roel Castro, the company’s president, and the rest of the team for aiding us further in the progress and growth of Iloilo City,” Rep. Barond added.