Northern Davao Electric Cooperative Inc. (Nordeco) has brought its legal battle over power distribution rights to the Supreme Court, seeking clarification and review of rulings that allow it to operate alongside Davao Light and Power Co. The move aims to protect both the cooperative and its over 200,000 member-consumer-owners in Davao del Norte and Davao de Oro.
At the center of the conflict is Republic Act No. 12144, a law that took effect last year. It expanded Davao Light’s franchise to cover areas previously served by Nordeco, including Tagum City, Samal City, and several municipalities in Davao del Norte and Davao de Oro. Before this law, Davao Light’s service area was limited mainly to Davao City, Panabo City, and a few nearby towns. Nordeco argues the law is unconstitutional and insists its own franchise remains valid until October 2028.
Several related court cases have been consolidated for review. Nordeco also filed a separate petition on May 26 asking the high court to stop a local trial court’s orders that allowed Davao Light to take over its assets. The cooperative warned consumers that Davao Light’s claim of full control starting May 26 is unlawful while cases are pending, and urged the public to report unauthorized meter replacements. It added that requests to withdraw billing deposits are on hold for now, but will be coordinated with the Energy Regulatory Commission for proper guidance.
This legal clash tests the balance between legislative franchise grants and existing service rights, directly affecting power supply stability, service costs, and consumer protection across a wide area of Mindanao. The outcome will set a precedent for how private firms and electric cooperatives share or transfer distribution territories under Philippine law.
