'Habagat' causing power interruptions in Boracay

The southwest monsoon or hanging habagat is causing a series of power interruptions in Boracay Island, the Aklan Electric Cooperative (AKELCO) said.

"Throughout the years, we notice an increasing trend of wind being blown during habagat. This maybe due to climate change. The strong wind moves our distribution lines causing power interruptions," said Engr. Joel Martinez of AKELCO.

AKELCO officials were invited by the Malay Council Tuesday to shed light on the series of power interruptions in Boracay. The council has been receiving complaints from tourists and resort owners affected.

Trees along the distribution lines were also observed to increase its height faster during rainy seasons.

"Grown up trees become the habitat of lizards, snakes and birds. They also contribute to the power interruptions as they come near to our electrical transformers," said Martinez.

Reports from AKELCO indicate that Boracay, including the entire Aklan province, consumes 36 megawatts of electricity during off peak hours. Around 54 megawatts of electricity are being consumed during peak hours.

"We assure the public that there is enough electricity for both Boracay and Aklan province. We have existing bilateral contracts with several independent power producers in Panay and in the Wholesale Spot Market," said Martinez.