Residents in Davao del Norte's first district and the Island Garden City of Samal can look forward to significant improvements in their electricity service as Davao Light and Power Company begins its expansion into these areas previously served by the Northern Davao Electric Cooperative (Nordeco).
Historic Milestone in Power Service Transition
The energy landscape in Davao del Norte is undergoing a major transformation following the implementation of Republic Act No. 12144, which lapsed into law on April 6, 2025. This legislation transfers the franchise areas of Tagum City and the Island Garden City of Samal from Nordeco to Davao Light, making DLPC the sole power utility firm for the entire province.
The transition reached a significant milestone on July 8, 2025, when Davao Light installed its first electric pole in Tagum City, marking the physical beginning of its operations in the area. This development signals the start of what local officials hope will be a new era of reliable and affordable electricity for residents who have long complained about high power rates and frequent brownouts.
Timeline for Full Service Implementation
Davao del Norte Governor Edwin Jubahib has expressed optimism that Davao Light will be able to provide full services to the area by the end of 2025. The governor revealed that the target timeline aims for the Energy Regulatory Commission to issue the necessary Certificate of Public Convenience and Necessity (CPCN) by December of this year.
"Our timeline, we are trying to have it by this year, before the end of the year — the month of December, the CPCN will be issued by the Energy Regulatory Commission so that Davao Light and Power Company can continue the construction and provide connection, which means they can give full services," Governor Jubahib stated.
Despite the progress, the transition faces challenges as Nordeco has not been participating in the transition process with Davao Light. The governor noted that his administration is attempting to reach out to the electric cooperative to ensure a peaceful and smooth turnover of operations.
Current and Future Service Areas
The current franchise arrangement sees Nordeco serving multiple localities in Davao del Norte, including:
- Tagum City
- Island Garden City of Samal (Igacos)
- New Corella
- Kapalong
- Asuncion
- San Isidro
- Talaingod
Meanwhile, Davao Light already provides service to Panabo City, Sto. Tomas, Braulio Dujali, and Carmen. With the implementation of RA 12144, Davao Light's expansion into Nordeco's franchise areas will consolidate power distribution services across the entire province under a single provider.
Governor Jubahib emphasized that the transition to Davao Light will bring tangible benefits to consumers, particularly through better electric services and more affordable power rates in areas once served by the cooperative. The installation of poles in parts of Tagum City and Kapalong Municipality demonstrates that the expansion is already underway, even as efforts continue to facilitate a cooperative transition between the outgoing and incoming power providers.
