As Typhoon Tino gains momentum toward the Philippine archipelago, consumer advocacy groups are sounding the alarm for Cebu's power distributors to immediately fortify their infrastructure against potential devastation.
The United Filipino Consumers and Commuters (UFCC) has issued a compelling appeal to Visayan Electric Company and other utility providers across Cebu province. The message is clear: take proactive measures now rather than react to catastrophic failures later.
Preventive Measures Take Center Stage
UFCC President Rodolfo Javellana Jr. emphasizes that temporary power shutdowns in high-risk areas might be necessary to protect both infrastructure and public safety. "Strategic, preemptive disconnections could prevent more extensive damage to electrical systems," Javellana explained.
The consumer group specifically highlighted the vulnerability of overhead cables and aging utility poles that could become projectiles in severe weather conditions. These concerns stem from previous typhoon experiences where weakened infrastructure led to prolonged restoration efforts.
Learning from Past Storms
Historical data reveals that Cebu's power distribution networks have shown susceptibility during severe weather events. The UFCC points to instances where inadequate preparation resulted in multi-day outages, severely impacting households, businesses, and essential services.
Javellana stressed that utility companies should already have comprehensive contingency plans in place, including:
- Pre-storm infrastructure inspections
- Strategic placement of repair crews
- Clear communication protocols for customers
- Coordination with local government units
Call for Immediate Action
With Typhoon Tino's projected path bringing it close to Cebu, the window for preparation is rapidly closing. The UFCC urges power distributors to activate their emergency response teams and implement their storm preparedness protocols without delay.
"The time for action is now, not when the storm is upon us," Javellana asserted. "We cannot afford a repeat of previous situations where communities endured extended power losses that hampered recovery efforts."
As meteorological agencies continue to monitor Typhoon Tino's development, all eyes remain on how Cebu's critical infrastructure providers will respond to this urgent call for reinforcement.
