Senator Gatchalian seeks Senate probe into frequent NGCP red, yellow alerts

Senate President Pro Tempore Sherwin "Win" Gatchalian has filed a resolution calling for a Senate inquiry into the increasing number of red and yellow alerts issued by the National Grid Corporation of the Philippines, which have resulted in power interruptions in parts of Luzon and the Visayas.

Gatchalian raised concerns that the expected intensification of the El Niño phenomenon in the coming months—potentially lasting until January next year—could further widen the country’s electricity supply gap and strain the power system.

“Projections that the El Niño weather phenomenon may strengthen in the last 4 months of the year, up to January next year, could exacerbate the power-supply gap in the country,” Gatchalian said, as he filed Proposed Senate Resolution 425.

He cited recent data showing that from May 12 to May 31, the Visayas grid was placed under red alert for about 22 interval hours and under yellow alert for approximately 93 interval hours. During the same period, the Luzon grid experienced roughly 27 interval hours under red alert and about 5.5 interval hours under yellow alert.

The senator said the proposed inquiry will assess the actual state of the country’s power supply and examine grid reliability, while also identifying possible accountability among stakeholders. It will likewise review whether generation companies are complying with industry standards and explore possible government interventions.

The investigation is also expected to look into stricter enforcement of energy regulations, including demand-side management measures under the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Act, to help stabilize the country’s power situation.