Bohol island residents enjoy electricity for first time after Napocor energization

Local

FAMILIES on Cataban Island in Talibon, Bohol, now have access to electricity for the first time after the National Power Corporation (Napocor) completed the island's energization on July 10, bringing dependable power to the remote fishing community.

Napocor President and Chief Executive Officer Jericho Jonas Nograles announced the development during an online briefing on Monday, July 13, describing the project as another step in expanding electricity services to off-grid areas.

"This is the first time that the municipality has reliable energy," Nograles said.

For years, residents relied mainly on disposable batteries for lighting and other basic needs because the island had no stable power source.

With electricity now available, households can switch to rechargeable batteries, helping lower daily expenses while reducing battery waste.

The state-run power firm also adjusted the island's eight-hour electricity schedule after consulting with residents whose livelihood depends on fishing.

Instead of the original 4 p.m. to midnight schedule, electricity will now be available from 2 p.m. to 10 p.m. to give fishermen enough time to recharge batteries before heading out to sea.

"They told us they needed to recharge their batteries because they leave for fishing at 10 o'clock in the evening," Nograles said.

He added that after returning from fishing, many residents travel to Cebu to sell their catch, making the revised schedule more responsive to the community's daily routine.

Cataban Island is the sixth island in the area to be energized under Napocor’s off-grid electrification program. It follows the successful connection of Sagasa, Maumawan, Malingin and Hingotanan islands in Bien Unido, as well as Ga-us Island in President Carlos P. Garcia, all of which received dependable electricity in May 2025.

Napocor said extending reliable power to geographically isolated and disadvantaged communities is expected to improve living conditions and support local economic activity by giving residents access to basic electricity services.(MyTVCebu)