Bohol — The National Power Corporation (Napocor) recently achieved a landmark success in its mission to illuminate the country's most isolated communities by officially energizing Cataban Island in Talibon, Bohol. On July 10, 2026, the newly completed Cataban Island Diesel Power Plant—featuring two 30 kW generator sets—began delivering stable, daily electricity to over 100 households, with more connections planned. This milestone marks a significant shift for the island’s residents, who have long relied on expensive and wasteful disposable batteries to power their daily lives. With reliable power now a reality, families on the island can enjoy lower energy costs and a more sustainable way of living.
Tailored Energy Solutions Supporting Local Fishing Livelihoods
In a remarkable example of community collaboration, Napocor worked directly with Cataban Island residents to adjust the power plant’s operating schedule to better fit their unique way of life. While the initial plan called for power from 4:00 p.m. to midnight, the community requested a shift to 2:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. to accommodate their fishing routines. This adjustment allows fishermen to fully recharge their batteries before heading out to sea at 10:00 p.m. each evening. Such responsiveness ensures that the energy provided is not just a utility, but a practical tool that directly enhances the productivity and success of the local fishing industry.
Empowering Families Through Reliable and Affordable Power Access
The arrival of electricity is creating new opportunities for families on Cataban Island, from allowing children to study comfortably at night to reducing the household costs associated with disposable batteries. Residents no longer need to travel to the mainland just to recharge their equipment, saving them both time and money while drastically reducing the environmental waste created by discarded batteries. Napocor President and CEO Jericho Jonas Nograles emphasized that this project serves as a vital catalyst for local commerce, development, and overall community well-being. By bridging the gap between isolated islands and the benefits of modern energy, the initiative is laying the groundwork for a brighter, more connected future for every family in the area.
Expanding the Vision of Total Philippine Island Electrification
Cataban Island’s energization is the sixth successful project completed by Napocor in the area under its expansive off-grid electrification program, following similar achievements in neighboring islands like Sagasa, Maumawan, Malingin, Hingotanan, and Ga-us. Napocor remains steadfast in its mandate to reach the country’s furthest and most underserved islands, viewing these efforts as essential to national progress. As the state-run corporation continues to modernize its off-grid systems—exploring hybrid renewable energy integrations—it remains committed to serving as a catalyst for economic change. These ongoing efforts reflect a broader, shared mission to ensure that no community, regardless of its distance from the main grid, is left behind in the country’s journey toward total electrification.
