KAPALONG, Davao del Norte (February 17) — Reliable power has finally reached a critical lifeline in this town.
The Davao del Norte Hospital in Kapalong Zone was energized Monday, becoming the first major institution connected under the expanded franchise of Davao Light and Power Company (DLPC).
To power up the facility, DLPC constructed a 12-kilometer distribution line stretching from Barangay Pag-asa to the municipal hall — a key infrastructure move made possible under Republic Act No. 12144 and backed by a provisional Certificate of Public Convenience and Necessity from the Energy Regulatory Commission.
“Today’s energization demonstrates our commitment to promptly bring reliable service to critical institutions such as this hospital,” DLPC president and chief operations officer Enriczar Tia said. “Essential public services must be supported without delay.”
For a hospital serving Kapalong and nearby communities, stable electricity means more than lights staying on — it ensures uninterrupted use of life-saving equipment, proper storage of medicines, and continuous patient care.
Governor Edwin Jubahib described the development as a long-awaited victory for residents who endured years of high electricity rates and frequent brownouts under the previous power cooperative.
“It was a long and difficult road, but we stood firm because the people’s welfare must always come first,” Jubahib said.
He emphasized that dependable electricity also strengthens the province’s Zero Balance Billing program, safeguarding hospital operations and protecting sensitive medical equipment from power fluctuations.
Beyond the hospital, more than 40 households have already been energized, with additional connections expected in the coming months.
DLPC’s franchise expansion now allows it to serve areas previously covered by the Northern Davao Electric Cooperative in parts of Davao del Norte and Davao de Oro — signaling a shift in the region’s power landscape.
For Kapalong residents, the hospital’s energization is more than a ceremonial switch-on. It represents a turning point — where reliable electricity begins to power not just homes, but hope for better healthcare and more stable public services.
