Davao Light gains ground in Davao Norte, De Oro despite opposition

DAVAO CITY (April 10) — A law expanding the franchise area of Davao Light and Power Company (DLPC) to cover additional areas in Davao del Norte and Davao de Oro has officially lapsed into law despite strong opposition from the Northern Davao Electric Cooperative (NORDECO) and several consumer advocacy groups.

Republic Act No. 12144 became law after President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. failed to act on the measure within the 30-day period allotted by the Constitution. The law was transmitted to the Office of the President and, by default, took effect following the lapse.

According to Atty. Cha Cabrera, provincial legal officer of Davao del Norte, said the government uploaded the law in the Official Gazette on April 9, 2025, and will take effect 15 days after publication, or on April 24.

“After April 24, Davao Light can begin the transition, including the physical deployment of its power supply and facilities in the new areas,” Cabrera told Newsline Philippines.

“This legal battle has lasted five years. Residents who have long suffered power outages can finally expect stable electricity,” she added.

RA 12144 amends Republic Act 11515, which initially granted DLPC the right to operate in Davao City, Panabo City, and the municipalities of Carmen, Braulio E. Dujali, and Santo Tomas.

With the new law, DLPC’s franchise now includes Davao del Norte: Tagum City, Island Garden City of Samal, Asuncion, Kapalong, New Corella, San Isidro, and Talaingod

Davao de Oro: Compostela, Laak, Mabini, Maco, Maragusan, Mawab, Monkayo, Montevista, Nabunturan, New Bataan, and Pantukan

The journey toward franchise expansion was not without political consequences. Davao del Norte Governor Edwin Jubahib, a staunch supporter of the Davao Light expansion, was suspended for 90 days while leading the movement for improved electricity service in the province.

Despite the setback, Jubahib continued to push for the transition, rallying local governments and consumer groups frustrated by years of erratic service under NORDECO.

Despite the law’s passage, NORDECO insists it is unconstitutional, arguing that it violates their exclusive franchise rights and the Electric Power Industry Reform Act (EPIRA) under RA 9136.

“This is a direct blow to our constitutionally granted franchises,” said Acting General Manager Elvera S. Alngog, reiterating NORDECO’s intent to challenge the law in court.

“We remain firm in our commitment to defend our Member-Consumer-Owners (MCOs). Everything is entrusted to God, whose heart is for the poor and oppressed.”

The Alliance for the People’s Protection of Electricity Consumers (APPEC) also voiced dismay, calling the law a betrayal of rural electric cooperatives.

“President Marcos should have vetoed this measure, just as he did with HB 10554,” said APPEC President Erma Sulpot.

“The passage appears politically motivated,” added Fr. Jay Lituañas, APPEC Vice President for External Affairs, criticizing what they described as an orchestrated effort to displace NORDECO.

Amid the political and legal pushback, residents in underserved areas like Samal welcomed the development. Frequent power outages have long disrupted the region’s daily life and economic activities.

“As a consumer, this law brings immense relief,” Atty. Cabrera said. “We finally see the light at the end of a very dark tunnel.”

Supporters believe Davao Light’s entry will lead to better infrastructure, fewer outages, and increased investor confidence across both provinces.

Meanwhile, NORDECO continues pursuing small claims cases against account holders who have unpaid electricity bills. The cooperative reported that 1,491 disconnected accounts will soon receive demand letters.

“Even if power has been cut off, the debt remains,” Alngog said. “We urge MCOs to pay to avoid further legal costs. These collections are vital to sustaining operations and improving service.”