Manila: The Energy Task Force on Election (ETFE), led by the Department of Energy (DOE), has assured the public of uninterrupted power supply nationwide during the May 12 midterm polls. In a virtual briefing Monday, DOE Undersecretary Felix William Fuentebella stated that the energy sector is ‘fully prepared’ to provide stable electricity and fuel throughout the voting, transmission, and canvassing periods.

According to Philippines News Agency, the ETFE, a multi-agency body led by the DOE, works closely with the Commission on Elections (Comelec) and security forces, including the Armed Forces of the Philippines, the Philippine National Police, and Bureau of Fire Protection to ensure a smooth and credible elections. Since January, the task force has held regular coordination meetings and inspections to assess readiness and implement contingency plans, while field personnel have conducted maintenance on transmission lines, polling stations, and backup systems, especially in remote and off-grid areas.

The DOE official highlighted that the energy sector has mapped out priority areas and is monitoring potential vulnerabilities, particularly in Visayas and Mindanao. ‘We have taken all necessary steps to support the smooth and credible conduct of the 2025 elections. The Department of Energy, through the ETFE, stands ready to respond and coordinate with our partners to maintain uninterrupted energy access across the country,’ Fuentebella added.

He also mentioned that the task force will closely monitor potential worst-case scenarios, including the simultaneous occurrence of natural disasters such as earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, and low-pressure weather systems that could trigger power disruptions. To mitigate these risks, Fuentebella stated that field officers will be deployed with contingency plans and coordinated with the security sector for rapid response.