Electricity was interrupted for nearly four hours across large parts of Davao City on Christmas Day after a man climbed a power pole during local celebrations in Barangay Ilang.
The blackout began at approximately 8 a.m., following reports that the man was moving across electric cables in the area. Authorities identified the individual only as “Piolo,” a 22-year-old resident of Maparat, Compostela, Davao de Oro.
Residents told Brigada Davao that Piolo was initially seen running across rooftops before climbing the Davao Light power pole. Attempts to persuade him to come down were unsuccessful, and the situation persisted for nearly four hours, leaving many households and businesses without electricity.
Piolo later admitted to using illegal drugs, which he said may have influenced his decision to climb the pole.
According to a service advisory from Davao Light, affected areas included Purok 6 in Buhisan, Tibungco up to Kilometer 18 of the National Highway via Daang Maharlika Highway, as well as Purok 15 along Panuntungan Street, Barangay Kilometer 18 Crossing Eliong Road up to Kilometer 17-1 in Bunawan, near Unifrutti, extending to Crossing Malagamot in Panacan.
No injuries were reported. Authorities emphasized that climbing electric poles and tampering with power lines poses serious safety risks and can disrupt essential services.
Power was restored after Piolo was safely brought down and the affected facilities were secured. Authorities continue to remind the public to report dangerous behavior near electrical infrastructure to prevent similar incidents.
