Lawmaker urges emergency powers to address Visayas power crisis

MANILA — Deputy Speaker and Bacolod Representative Albee Benitez has suggested that emergency powers for President Marcos could provide a faster resolution to the power crisis currently affecting the Visayas region. Benitez made the proposal during a House committee hearing that brought together the committees on energy, Visayas development, and legislative franchises to discuss the escalating power supply challenges.

The Visayas region has been grappling with recurring power outages and insufficient electricity supply, creating concerns among residents and businesses dependent on reliable energy access. The situation has prompted lawmakers to explore alternative approaches to accelerate relief measures and infrastructure improvements.

The proposal to grant emergency powers reflects growing urgency among legislators to address the power shortage more decisively. Such measures could potentially expedite decision-making processes and allow for faster implementation of emergency solutions, though the proposal would require approval from appropriate government bodies.

The hearing underscored the critical need for coordinated action among multiple congressional committees to tackle the multifaceted dimensions of the power crisis, ranging from regulatory and franchise issues to regional development strategies.