Group flags conversion of NGCP lots for housing

A group of advocates for electricity rights has raised “serious” concerns over proposals to convert National Grid Corporation of the Philippines (NGCP) properties in Duljo-Fatima and Talamban into residential or socialized housing sites, warning that the move could cripple Cebu’s power grid.

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In a statement, Cebu Electricity Rights Advocates (CERA) convenor Nathaniel Chua not only raised these concerns but also stressed that the move could undermine energy stability as early as 2026.

Chua, in the same statement, said the NGCP-designated lots are not idle or vacant lands but critical components of the Metro Cebu Transmission Loop, serving as strategic entry points for power distribution into the city's commercial and residential centers.

"These lots are essential nodes for stabilizing Cebu City's power grid. Losing them would permanently cripple the grid's future," Chua said.

Chua's remarks came amid statements from Cebu City Mayor Nestor Archival, who earlier said the city is reviewing land availability for additional Medium-Rise Buildings (MRBs) beyond Lorega, including properties tied to NGCP.

Archival had previously said that while approvals have already been secured, the transfer of land ownership remains the main hurdle delaying construction.