FIRST-EVER UNMANNED SUBSTATION IN THR REGION VI TO SERVE ILONGGOS

ILOILO CITY - MORE Electric and Power Corporation (MORE Power), the sole electricity distributor in Iloilo City, has taken a bold step toward securing the region’s power future. This landmark initiative for the Western Visayas energy sector introduces the area’s first fully unmanned 30MVA substation. This historic milestone stems not from hasty planning but from years of intensive assessment and careful forecasting of consumer needs. The achievement represents a major advance in modernizing the region’s power infrastructure, underscoring MORE Power’s commitment to efficient, reliable, and innovative service for Ilonggo consumers. The facility is remotely controlled from MORE Power’s Control Center via an advanced Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) system. Fully automated, it is operated and managed entirely from the center, with real-time data delivering all essential information.

State-of-the-art design allows monitoring of load flow, voltage levels, and equipment conditions without on-site human supervision. Expanding SCADA systems and Intelligent Electronic Devices (IEDs) forms a key part of MORE Power’s five-year development plan and grid modernization efforts.

In a statement, Engr. Wilmar Gonzaludo, PSPD Manager, attributed the success to “long and meticulous planning, plus a deep understanding of the system that Iloilo consumers need. ”It can be recalled that in 2020, during MORE Power’s launch, substations were nearly overloaded, frequently knocked out, and in poor condition, some were not even upgraded for 30 years. MORE Power promptly began repairs, addressing substations, distribution lines, aging poles, high systems loss, and rampant illegal connections. “In other places, SCADA and automation are already in use. Advanced technology exists, so why not leverage it, especially with MORE Power here to deliver the same high-quality services to consumers? ” said Engr. Mark Anthony Molano, Substation Projects Manager. Engr. Molano also emphasized strengthening the distribution system’s foundation to better serve consumers, particularly during peak demand. MORE Power assures tight security, with personnel still guarding the substations—vital installations amid surging electricity needs driven by Iloilo City and the province's economic growth.

MORE Power's electricity rate for May, DECREASED by P0.27/kWh

ILOILO CITY — MORE Electric and Power Corporation is passing on relief to Ilonggo consumers with a reduction in electricity rates for May, despite upward pressure on global commodity prices stemming from the ongoing crisis in the Middle East. The residential rate for May is ₱11.8710 per kWh, down from ₱12.14 per kWh in April. The commercial rate falls to ₱11.00 per kWh from ₱11.27 last month. The movement in retail rates is primarily attributed to a lower transmission charge, which declined to ₱0.26/kWh versus the previous month. The system loss charge was also trimmed by ₱0.027/kWh, reflecting the transmission adjustment; overall system loss improved from 5.37% to 5.20%. On the other hand, the generation charge rose by ₱0.05/kWh due to higher coal prices and increased freight costs associated with imports. Inflation (CPI) and foreign exchange fluctuations also pushed generation costs upward. Prices in the Wholesale Electricity Spot Market likewise climbed to ₱4.47/kWh. Despite the uptick in generation costs, MORE Power managed to lower final consumer rates by sourcing cheaper power under bilateral contracts. “We strive to provide our consumers with the best electricity rates despite the challenges we are currently facing,” said Roel Z. Castro, President and CEO of MORE Power. “MORE Power remains steadfast in ensuring the welfare of Ilonggos by delivering quality and affordable electricity to every household and establishment. As the heat index rises this summer, consumers are encouraged to practice mindful electricity use, since greater appliance demand can lead to higher bills,” Mr. Castro added. The rate cut provides welcome respite as residents contend with rising prices for basic goods and services. MORE Power said the move reflects its ongoing efforts to ease financial burdens on families and businesses in Iloilo City. The company is monitoring price and supply conditions heading into June after the National Grid Corporation of the Philippines (NGCP) issued several yellow and red alerts, signaling potential supply shortages relative to demand. MORE Power reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining reliable service and affordable electricity for Ilonggos

Big Ilonggo Businesses Migrated to MORE Power in Q1 2026

Pavia, Iloilo – Malls, food chains, hotels, BPOs, publication offices, and even construction firms are among the diverse sectors now served by MORE Power, as the company continues to expand its reach. In the first quarter of 2026, MORE Power accommodated the migration of several major accounts seeking reliable service, cost efficiency, and customer-friendly support for their thriving operations.

The latest to make the migration is Waffle Time Inc., a prominent Ilonggo business franchise, for its commissary in Brgy. Pagsangaan, Pavia, Iloilo. The company successfully transferred its load to MORE Power as its primary power source. Just last month, Taytay sa Kauswagan (TSKI), a major finance firm and hotel operator, along with Gateway Hotel, completed their migration on March 27, 2026. TSKI CEO and President Mr. Peter Talbanban and Gateway Hotel Chief Operating Officer Mr. Wendell Hofanda led the migration ceremony. “The primary expectation is better service and lower costs, especially amid the current Middle East crisis. All expenses are rising, making this the ideal time to migrate to MORE Power and reduce our electricity bills. Our TSKI main office is here in Pavia and serves all branch needs. If we experience a brownout, it disrupts our entire digitalized system, so reliable power is crucial,” said Mr. Peter Talbanban, TSKI CEO and President. “I’d like to thank MORE Power for reaching out to us. We were surprised by their initiative, and we’re thrilled about this partnership, which promises lower electricity costs and superior service,” he added.

This migration underscores the trust these companies place in MORE Power to deliver long-term reliable electricity for their establishments. “This marks a win for consumers who seek better quality of electricity, fair pricing, and improved service. MORE Power’s values have always been centered on the welfare of its consumers. We have heard the clamor and understood the needs of the consumers—this is why we have expanded to the province of Iloilo. I am truly grateful for the trust of the consumers in Pavia, Iloilo”, said Mr. Roel Z. Castro, President and CEO of MORE Power. MORE Power launched operations in Iloilo Province this year after finalizing its facilities. This was enabled nearly five years ago on September 20, 2021, when 2nd District Representative Michael Gorriceta and 4th District Representative Braeden John Biron filed for the company’s franchise expansion to deliver modern, reliable power distribution to towns in their districts. The well-timed migration ceremony highlighted MORE Power’s readiness to support consumers’ needs for dependable, modern power distribution.