Power shortage doesn't call for emergency powers — Palace

President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo won’t use her emergency powers to deal with a looming power shortage in the run-up to the first automated polls in May. Deputy Presidential Spokesman Gary Olivar made the reassurance on Sunday, noting that such emergency powers do not appear to be the answer to the power shortage. “In theory, Mrs. Arroyo does have emergency powers... But I do not see how she can use emergency powers to stem a power shortage. The solution is to build power plants to stabilize the supply of electricity especially in Mindanao," Olivar told government-run dzRB radio in Filipino. “Theoretically the President has the power but I don’t think the situation will lead to her using it," he added. Olivar said the problem does not call for mobilizing people or going after criminals, or even repairing facilities. Besides, the problem is not that severe to be considered an emergency, he added. “The problem is not that severe, and it is not clear how a state of emergency can help solve the problem," Olivar said. He also downplayed the use of emergency powers to allow concerned government agencies to take “legal shortcuts" to address the power situation. He said most power plants in Mindanao are privately operated. “I have no reason to believe the private owners are not doing anything to make their plants efficient." In the meantime, Olivar said, people should conserve power and water. “Don’t panic and let’s help each other conserve water and power." — NPA, GMANews.TV