Mindanao-wide Erratic Power Outage

         When a radio announcer mentioned that the current power outages can last until 2015, I was berserk in a silent way. First of all, such power outage has been ongoing for a week, and because ZANECO (Zamboanga del Norte Electric Cooperative) could not provide the exact times of power interruptions, I gave up 7 of my students to sub teachers. As an online employee, experiencing power interruptions is one of my greatest fears. So, if you are an irritated resident in Mindanao who has experienced fanning their kids to sleep at night; fetching water from wells; skipping on your favorite TV shows at night; or having candlelight dinner; be thankful because you don't have to give up at least 50% of your monthly earnings. Well, except to those who aren't working at all. But before you curse ZANECO, please take a look at the reason on why we're having power interruptions.

        Carlos Petilla, the current Energy Secretary, had determined that the cause of the blackout which occurred last February 27 at 3:53 am was the bogging down of Pulangi hydropower plants, government-owned plants, located in Bukidnon. Authorities from the said plant assure that no sabotage had happened to cause the outage, but as of the moment, they could not determine the main reason of the bog down. Even NGCP (National Grid Corporation of the Philippines) could not specifically say of the culprit in the incident as well as the date on when power would be restored. For this, Mindanao has been experiencing a three hour rotating blackout everyday. We should also take note that Luzon endured the same power outages last May.

           Nevertheless, don't fret too much when brownout strikes your place, especially that summer is here. Here are some better things to do while waiting for electricity to return:

1. If you have kids, bond with them. During power outages, I teach my 2 year old son the ABC, read books, and sing songs with him.

2. Eat your favorite halo-halo. Halo-halo (mix) is a pinoy dessert that's comprised of ground ice, fruits like bananas and langka (jack fruit), sago, chips, leche flan, and many others. It's topped with a scoop of ice cream, and it is definitely a good treat during power blackouts at noontime. You can buy halo halo at Dipolog City boulevard for only 15 php. Add 5 php if you want to take it out.

3. Drink as much cold water as you can to avoid dehydration.  

4. Go to your favorite swimming spot, beach, or resort. 

5. Eat Corneto. For only 20 php, you can munch on one of the best tasting ice cream drumsticks in the world.

6. Don't move too much as it can make you feel hotter. 

7. Wear light clothing only. 

8. Make sure to prepare rechargeable lighting and cooling equipment, especially if you have kids.