Government Energizes 2MW power plant in Basilan to address power issues

DAVAO CITY – To address the persistent power supply issues in Lamitan City, Basilan, the government officially switched on the 2MW Rosse Power Plant in Sitio Baroy, Barangay Sengal, Lamitan City, on November 19. The new facility is expected to provide a reliable source of electricity to the city, ending years of intermittent blackouts.

The ceremonial switch-on was led by Governor Jim Salliman-Hataman, Mayor Roderick Furigay, Vice Mayor Hegem Furigay, and Conrad Isahac, Western Mindanao Operations Division Manager of the National Power Corporation (NAPOCOR). Local and barangay officials, alongside representatives from NAPOCOR and the Basilan Electric Cooperative (BASELCO), were also present.

For years, Lamitan City and other parts of Basilan have struggled with frequent power outages caused by insufficient power generation and aging infrastructure. The commissioning of the Rosse Power Plant marks a major milestone in the city’s quest for stable electricity.

The project includes a 2-megawatt modular diesel generator set valued at ₱24 million, funded through a partnership between the Lamitan City Government and NAPOCOR. This agreement ensures the exclusive use of the power plant for Lamitan City, with potential surplus energy allocation to nearby municipalities.

Mayor Furigay expressed optimism, stating, “The Rosse Power Plant will end the recurring blackouts and ensure stable power for Lamitan City. This is a turning point for our community as we focus on growth and development.”

Governor Salliman-Hataman emphasized the broader implications of the new power plant, particularly its role in catalyzing economic growth. “The Rosse Power Plant is vital for Lamitan’s development and for supporting the city’s strategic importance in the BARMM region,” he said.

Additionally, the governor revealed plans to upgrade Basilan’s power infrastructure to a three-phase system, backed by ₱520 million sourced from the Department of Budget and Management (DBM). This upgrade will ensure reliable power distribution across the province.

Vice Mayor Hegem Furigay called the event “a celebration of progress and collaboration,” highlighting the combined efforts of government, private partners, and the people of Lamitan in addressing the city’s power challenges. “This project is a testament to what we can achieve together—a brighter and more prosperous future for Lamitan City,” he said.

The activation of the Rosse Power Plant marks a pivotal moment in addressing Basilan’s long-standing power issues. With stable electricity, the city is poised to become a hub for economic activity and regional development, paving the way for future investments and opportunities.