MORE Electric and Power Corporation (MORE Power) marked a major milestone by successfully connecting its first customer to the Underground Distribution System (UDS) in Iloilo City. Intensity Fitness Gym, located along JM Basa Street in the heart of the city’s historic business district, became the pioneering recipient of this innovative energy solution on October 26.
The connection, established around 2 PM, involved thorough testing and system checks, which yielded flawless results, as reported by MORE Power engineers. This seamless connection underscores the reliability and safety of the UDS, a vital feature as Iloilo City takes significant strides toward urban modernization and infrastructure sustainability.
Background of the UDS Project
Launched in mid-2023, the UDS project represents a P96-million collaborative investment between MORE Power and the Iloilo City government. The ambitious project targets a one-kilometer stretch of the city’s historic downtown, known as Calle Real, encompassing Arroyo Street, Aldeguer Street, Guanco Street, Mapa Street, Ortiz Street, Rizal/Zamora Street, and Plaza Libertad. This transformation moves overhead electrical lines underground, enhancing both the functionality and visual appeal of Iloilo City’s heritage zones.
Using advanced Horizontal Directional Drilling (HDD) technology, MORE Power avoided traditional open-trench methods, significantly reducing daytime disruptions. Construction occurred from 7 PM to 7 AM, a schedule that kept daytime traffic flowing and minimized inconvenience for businesses and residents.
‘Historic Milestone’
Roel Z. Castro, President and CEO of MORE Power, highlighted the significance of this advancement, calling it “a historic milestone not just for MORE Power but for the entire Iloilo City community.” He emphasized that the connection of Intensity Fitness Gym represents the first of many connections to come as the UDS extends throughout the area.
“This successful connection marks the start of a more resilient and efficient power distribution system in Iloilo City’s heritage zone. As we continue to invest in underground infrastructure, we reaffirm our commitment to innovation and sustainability. Moving forward, we will engage the community to ensure that our initiatives serve the needs and aspirations of all Ilonggos,” Castro stated.
Treñas Commends UDS Project
Echoing the significance of this project, Iloilo City Mayor Jerry P. Treñas expressed his pride in Iloilo City’s role as the first in the Visayas to implement LGU-DU initiated underground cabling. He underscored the project’s alignment with the city’s modernization efforts.
“This pioneering project, led by MORE Power in partnership with telecommunications and cable providers, is transforming our city’s visual landscape. By moving wires underground, we are eliminating the unsightly ‘spaghetti’ of cables that mar Calle Real and our heritage plazas,” Treñas said. “Beyond beautification, this initiative aims to improve reliability, efficiency, and safety in utility services, enhancing the quality of life for every Ilonggo.”
Treñas further remarked that the underground distribution system sets a new benchmark for urban development in the region, embodying a vision where progress, heritage, and quality of life blend seamlessly.
Customer Feedback
Intensity Fitness Gym’s manager, Erwin Ancino, praised the system’s reliability and safety, saying, “Thank you MORE Power. We are happy to be the first customer to benefit from the UDS. This is much better because our lines are safer, the system is reliable and efficient, and we are confident it will provide us with an uninterrupted power supply.”
As Iloilo City leads the Visayas region in adopting an underground distribution system, MORE Power’s UDS project stands as a testament to the city’s commitment to sustainable urban development. By balancing technological advancement with heritage preservation, Iloilo City is setting a standard for resilient, future-ready urban landscapes across the Philippines.
