MORE Power, Electric Coops Must Bridge Divide

The expansion of MORE Power into new areas in Iloilo, driven by overwhelming consumer demand, has underscored a tension between the company and the electric cooperatives (ECs) that have long served these regions. While MORE Power’s initial five-year plan did not include such expansion, it quickly adapted when residents in 15 towns, particularly in the 2nd and 4th districts, voiced their desire for a more reliable power supply.

Roel Castro, President and CEO of MORE Power, emphasized that the company’s expansion was purely a response to consumers’ needs rather than a corporate agenda. Yet, despite this, many electric cooperatives have resisted the move. Their hesitation may stem from concerns over competition and maintaining operational control in territories they have long monopolized.

At the heart of this matter, however, are the consumers—ordinary citizens caught between a corporate tug-of-war. Their demands for stable, affordable, and modernized electricity services should take precedence over business rivalries. Both MORE Power and the electric cooperatives share the same mandate: to serve the public. Their efforts should align, not compete, in providing the best service possible.

The prospect of a joint venture agreement (JVA) between MORE Power and electric cooperatives could serve as a middle ground. Such an arrangement would allow cooperatives to benefit from MORE Power’s resources, technology, and capital, which can help modernize aging infrastructure. In return, MORE Power can extend its reach and improve its credibility in areas where there may still be skepticism about its service.

In towns like Pavia, the local government has already passed a resolution urging MORE Power to fast-track its expansion and consider a JVA with ILECO I, the cooperative serving the area. This move signals a broader expectation from the public: they care less about who delivers their power, as long as it is reliable and affordable.

However, the political climate, influenced by the upcoming 2025 elections, may be slowing down progress. As Castro himself noted, the current political environment has complicated decision-making. But the question remains—should politics really stand in the way of essential services? The answer is a resounding no.

Ultimately, the core issue remains: Are MORE Power and the electric cooperatives genuinely committed to serving the public? If so, they should engage in serious discussions that put consumer welfare first. Ignoring the growing demand for better service would not only be a disservice but could also erode public trust in both entities.

Consumers deserve more than a turf war over who controls the power grid. They deserve leadership, transparency, and action that prioritizes their needs. When the lights go out, it’s the people who are left in the dark—quite literally. Neither MORE Power nor the cooperatives can afford to lose sight of this simple truth.