An unexpected power interruption affected parts of Olongapo City on Thursday after a snake came into contact with electrical equipment at a local substation.
In an advisory, Olongapo Electricity Distribution Company (OEDC) reported that the reptile had climbed onto a gantry structure within one of its substations.
The animal’s contact with energized components caused a line-to-ground fault, prompting protective systems to activate and automatically shut down the affected power feeders, the OEDC explained.
The shutdown, while disruptive to residents and businesses, was a safety measure designed to prevent further damage to the electrical network and ensure public safety, it added.
Utility personnel immediately responded to the incident, clearing the obstruction and conducting necessary inspections before restoring power to the affected areas.
OEDC confirmed that electricity service has since been fully restored.
The company apologized for the inconvenience caused by the sudden outage and expressed appreciation for the public’s patience and understanding.