Super Typhoon Uwan's Devastating Impact: Power Outages and Beyond
In a worrying development, Super Typhoon Uwan (Fung-wong) has caused widespread damage to the Philippines' power infrastructure, leaving more than 20 transmission lines out of service. This is a critical situation that affects the lives and livelihoods of many Filipinos, and it's only the beginning of the story.
As of November 9, 2025, at 5:45 pm, the National Grid Corporation of the Philippines (NGCP) reported an increase in the number of affected lines. Initially, an advisory stated that 14 lines were down, but the true extent of the damage became clearer as the typhoon's path unfolded.
The Impact on Luzon and Visayas
In Luzon, the following transmission lines were affected:
- Pitogo-Mulanay 69kV (QUEZELCO I)
- Naga-Lagonoy 69kV (CASURECO II & IV)
- Naga-Libmanan 69kV (CASURECO I)
- Naga-Tinambac 69kV (CASURECO II)
- Naga-Iriga 69kV (CASURECO III)
- Tiwi C-Pawa 69kV (ALECO)
- Daraga-Sto. Domingo 69kV (ALECO)
- Daraga-Legazpi 69kV (ALECO)
- Daraga-Ligao 69kV (ALECO)
- Sorsogon-Bulan 69kV (SORECO I & II)
- Daraga-Sorsogon 69kV (SORECO I & II)
- Labo-Paracale 69kV (CANORECO)
- Batangas-Taysan 69kV (BATELEC II & MERALCO)
- Naga-Concepcion 69kV (CASURECO II)
The Visayas region was not spared either, with these lines impacted:
- Babatngon-Arado 69kV (LEYECO II)
- Paranas-Quinapondan 69kV (ESAMELCO)
- Calbayog-Bliss 69kV (SAMELCO I)
- Palanas-Cara-Catarman-Allen-Lao-ang 69kV (NORSAMELC)
- Calbayog-Palanas-Cara 69kV (SAMELCO I)
- Amlan-San Carlos 69kV (NORECO I)
But here's where it gets controversial: NGCP also reported that two 138kV, two 230kV, and two 350kV lines are unavailable, but their locations remain undisclosed. This lack of transparency might raise concerns among the public, especially with the potential impact on critical infrastructure and services.
Restoration Efforts and the Path of Uwan
NGCP assured the public that inspection and restoration efforts will commence once weather conditions permit. As of 2 p.m., Uwan was located 100 km northeast of Daet, Camarines Norte, moving west-northwest at a speed of 30 kph. The typhoon's maximum sustained winds reached an alarming 185 km/h, with gusts up to 230 km/h.
And this is the part most people miss...
While the focus is often on the immediate aftermath of a typhoon, the long-term impact on power restoration and the potential for further damage as Uwan continues its path should not be overlooked. The question arises: How prepared are we for the challenges that lie ahead?
As we navigate these challenging times, it's crucial to stay informed and support one another. What are your thoughts on the situation? Do you think the power restoration efforts are on the right track, or is there room for improvement? Feel free to share your insights and experiences in the comments below!
