BAGUIO CITY — Damages from Tropical Cyclone Emong and the southwest monsoon (Habagat) have reached ₱7.2 million as of 3 p.m. on July 31, according to BENECO spokesperson Laarni S. Ilagan.
Despite torrential rains, landslides, and strong winds that knocked out electricity across much of Baguio City and Benguet, BENECO has restored power to 96.4% of households and 98.9% of barangays within its franchise area.
As of 8:00 am, Baguio City bore the brunt of the storm, incurring the highest damage at ₱4,526,094.44, including four primary poles, two transformers, and 11 protective devices.
Benguet followed with ₱2,284,076.54 in damages, with 28 poles and six transformers affected.
The figures are expected to increase as assessments from other municipalities continue.
According to BENECO, fallen trees, bamboo, and landslides damaged power lines, while inaccessible roads hampered prompt repair work—particularly in the remote parts of Benguet.
In Baguio, only a few isolated households remain without electricity.
Restoration teams are now focusing on Kabayan, Natubleng, and Saddle Atok along Halsema Highway, where major backbone lines require urgent repairs.
“We can now concentrate and send majority of our manpower and heavy equipment and materials needed to Benguet municipalities,” said BENECO Network Services Department Head Engr. George Tait.
Power restoration efforts are ongoing, and BENECO assures the public that all remaining affected areas will be energized as soon as road conditions permit.
Share