Thousands expected at Calapan protest over ORMECO power outages and rates

Around 3,000 people are assembling in Calapan City on Saturday, July 25, to protest frequent power interruptions and high rates under the authority of the Mindoro Consumer Coalition.

CALAPAN CITY, Oriental Mindoro — Thousands of consumers began assembling on Saturday, July 25, for a people’s protest against the Oriental Mindoro Electric Cooperative (ORMECO), organizers and city officials said.

The rally was authorised by the City Government of Calapan, which issued a permit allowing the Mindoro Consumer Coalition (MCC) to hold the demonstration. MCC leader Leo Cinco said participants were gathering in front of Jollibee San Vicente before proceeding along a route approved by city authorities.

Organisers told reporters they expected about 3,000 people to take part in the protest. Under the city permit, the MCC is required to comply with all applicable laws, city ordinances and regulations while the activity is in progress.

City officials said the organisers coordinated with the City Public Safety Department–Traffic Management Office and the Calapan City Police Station to manage traffic and ensure public safety during the event. Authorities were monitoring the activity to help keep it peaceful and orderly.

Protesters voiced long-standing complaints about ORMECO's service, highlighting frequent power interruptions, high electricity rates and what they described as inadequate service delivery. They also called for an immediate investigation into Competitive Selection Process (CSP) Resolution No. 57, which the group says has contributed to problems affecting electricity consumers.

No response from ORMECO was included in initial reports provided by organisers and city sources.

The demonstration and its organisers are subject to the conditions of the city permit and to the supervision of public safety authorities for the duration of the march.