When power finally reaches far-flung communities

Davao Light, through the Sitio Electrification Program, lights up Davao's remote villages, turning daily struggles into stories of opportunity and development

- BY JASMINE TUAÑO

Mary Jane and Boyet Sampiano own a small sari-sari store that grew modestly over the years, now offering piso WiFi and laminating, printing, and photocopying services after the sitio electrification program reached their barangay.

Life without electricity moves on a different clock. In many far-flung barangays in the Philippines, night still comes too soon. Before dusk settles in, communities dim quickly and quietly so children must rush to finish their homework. Stores close early to save on costly generator fuel, and families prepare supper by the weak light of a kerosene lamp. For them, every watt is rationed and every drop of fuel is measured with care.

According to the Department of Energy, over 1.5 million Filipino households remain without electricity as of the latest report early this year. To bridge this divide, the government launched the Sitio Electrification Program (SEP), a national effort to bring the grid to remote communities that are usually the last to receive electricity.

Among those taking the lead is Davao Light and Power Company, an AboitizPower distribution utility serving Davao City and its neighboring areas. Through SEP, Davao Light has energized more than 200 remote communities, with only a handful of sitios left before its service area reaches full electrification. Barangay-level coverage is now at 100 percent, while household electrification stands at 97.61 percent.

Powering and empowering communities

Statistics only tell part of the story. What truly matters is how electricity turns a corner store into a thriving business or a classroom into a space of comfort and possibilities.