Aboitiz Power and Davao Light Inaugurate Historic Davao–Samal Submarine Interconnection
On April 17, 2026, Aboitiz Power Corporation and Davao Light and Power Company (Davao Light) officially launched the Davao–Samal Submarine Interconnection in Bridgeport, Samal. This landmark project marks a significant milestone aimed at improving power reliability and fostering long-term growth in the Island Garden City of Samal.
State-of-the-Art Infrastructure
The submarine cable, manufactured in China and custom-built to meet specific technical requirements, spans 1.25 kilometers across the Pakiputan Strait. It operates at 69 kilovolts with a maximum capacity of 50 megawatts, directly connecting Samal Island to the Davao City grid. Enriczar Tia, President and Chief Operating Officer of Davao Light, emphasized that this facility is a critical step toward stabilizing the island's power supply.
"This interconnection is a critical step in strengthening the power system of Samal," Tia stated. "We are committed to delivering reliable service, improving our network, and supporting the island's continued growth."
Primary Power Source and Future-Proof Design
Tia clarified that the submarine cable will no longer serve as merely an additional supply line but will become the island's primary source of electricity. With Samal's current peak demand at around 12 megawatts, the 50-megawatt capacity provides more than enough power, ensuring ample room for future expansion.
"So, mao ni siya ang mahimong main source of electricity nga i-provide sa Samal Island (So this will become the main source of electricity to provide in Samal)," he explained. "Future-proof gyud siya. Ready ta bisan modako pa kaayo ang Samal (It is indeed future-proofed, we are ready even if the demand in Samal surges)."
He highlighted that the project anticipates increased demand from businesses and consumers, particularly once major infrastructure projects like the Samal-Davao bridge are completed.
Enhanced Protection and Reduced Diesel Dependence
Addressing concerns about potential damage, Tia noted that previous systems were vulnerable to ship anchors due to being laid on the seabed without protection. The new cable features protective layers and is buried two meters beneath the seabed to ensure durability and prevent accidental damage.
Davao del Norte official Edwin Jubahib added that the interconnection will reduce reliance on diesel-powered generation, which has made power supply susceptible to fuel price fluctuations and shortages. "Kung mahal ang diesel o walay supply, maapektuhan gyud ang kuryente sa Samal (If diesel becomes expensive or there is no supply, the electricity in Samal would definitely be affected)," he said.
Boost to Tourism and Investment
Jubahib emphasized that the improved power infrastructure is expected to drive tourism growth and attract more investors, especially in the hospitality sector. "Yes, ang kasagaran nga nag-signify is ang mga hotels. Nakita nila nga ang Samal is a very promising island (Yes, most of those expressing interest are the hotels. They see that Samal is a very promising island)," he remarked.
Ruby Uy, president of the Samal Island Beach Resorts Association, welcomed the development, noting that reliable electricity will alleviate operational challenges for resorts. "Overwhelming kaayo ang Samal-Davao cable project kay dili nami maglisod og operate tungod naa nay tarong nga kuryente (The Samal–Davao cable project is very overwhelming for us because we will no longer have difficulty operating since there will already be reliable electricity)," she said.
Tia concluded that the submarine interconnection is part of a broader effort to ensure dependable electricity service while supporting economic expansion in Samal, positioning the island for sustainable development and enhanced quality of life for residents and businesses alike.
