By: Angelica Arquero

Thousands of residents in Baguio City and parts of Benguet are still experiencing power interruptions following the devastation brought by Super Typhoon Uwan.

Fallen posts and damaged power lines, along with road closures, have added to the challenges in restoring electricity in the area.

For students like Xyrah Panesa, the lack of electricity is disrupting not only daily routines but also preparations for upcoming exams.

“We have upcoming exams since the semester is ending, and we also need to study. It’s important for our parents back home to stay updated,” Xyrah said.

She added, “It’s stressful because there’s so much to catch up on, and without data connection, it’s also hard to update, so it worries me.”

Residents have flocked to government charging stations, such as the one at the Baguio Convention Center, to keep their devices powered.

Maxine De Elyo, another UP Baguio student, shared her concern.

“It’s really important to charge our devices. We can’t update our parents since they’re at home, and as students, we also need to do our schoolwork,” Maxine said. She added, “It’s stressful because instead of checking updates about the typhoon or what to do next, we can’t even access information.”

The Benguet Electric Cooperative (BENECO) reported that restoring electricity is a complex process due to the number of damaged lines and posts.

“Restoration activities are ongoing here in Baguio City, including Benguet. So far, nothing has been fully restored, but as of 8:44 a.m. this morning, NGCP has energized the supply lines passing through here,” said Laarnie Ilagan, BENECO Communication Relations Officer.

She added, “Many large trees fell on power lines and pulled down posts, causing massive damage.”

BENECO has yet to give a definite timeline for full restoration of electricity in Baguio City and Benguet. “We are aiming to restore about 30% to 40% according to our technical department. This is our goal, but it is not definite,” Ilagan said.

The cooperative also urged residents for patience, noting the hard work of line personnel despite the difficult conditions. “We sincerely ask for everyone’s understanding. As much as possible, our linemen are working nonstop,” she said.

Apart from damaged power lines, landslides remain a major concern.

The Baguio-Bontoc Road in Buguias, Benguet, has been closed due to continuous landslides and fallen trees.

Motorists are also temporarily barred from using the Mountain Province-Vizcaya Road because of landslides.

The Kennon Road is closed to the public, allowing only residents to pass.