By Nimfa L. Estrellado Fire engulfs a section of the Pagbilao Power Station in Quezon on October 31, 2025. The incident left one worker dead...
 |
| Fire engulfs a section of the Pagbilao Power Station in Quezon on October 31, 2025. The incident left one worker dead and nine others injured. (AboitizPower) |
PAGBILAO, Quezon — The Department of Energy (DOE) and Pagbilao Energy Corporation (PEC) have assured full medical and financial support to the families of those affected by the fire incident at Unit 3 of the Pagbilao Power Station on the evening of October 31, 2025, which claimed one life and injured nine others.
In a statement, PEC confirmed that of the ten individuals involved, three were company employees from Therma Luzon Inc. (TLI), while seven were from contracting firms. The company said all injured personnel were immediately brought to the nearest medical facility for treatment and care.
In its latest update, seven of the injured are in stable condition, while two have undergone surgeries and are under close monitoring. Arrangements have been made for the possible transfer of patients to specialized hospitals in Metro Manila. PEC said all medical expenses are being covered, along with logistical, financial, and emotional support for the victims and their families.
Energy Secretary Sharon S. Garin extended her condolences to the family of the deceased and expressed hopes for the swift recovery of those injured. She said the DOE expects PEC to continue working closely with medical teams, local authorities, and the families of the injured and the deceased to ensure all needs are fully addressed.
“The DOE stands in solidarity with the affected families during this difficult time, we assure the public that we will continue to coordinate with PEC and other concerned agencies to ensure that proper assistance is provided and that a thorough investigation proceeds.” Secretary Garin said.
The DOE said it continues to coordinate with PEC and other concerned agencies to ensure proper assistance and a thorough investigation into the incident. The department also committed to supporting repair and recovery efforts for the power plant and the affected workers, emphasizing the importance of safety and welfare in ongoing operations.
“The DOE also commits to assisting, where appropriate, in the recovery efforts for both the affected personnel and the power plant, we will ensure that necessary support mechanisms are in place as operations move toward rehabilitation, while upholding the welfare of all workers involved.” Secretary Garin added.
Meanwhile, PEC said the cause of the fire remains under investigation, with teams inspecting the site to determine the origin and extent of the damage. Operations in the affected unit have been temporarily halted, though other facilities at the plant continue to operate normally to help maintain power supply stability.
“PEC reaffirms its dedication to the safety and well-being of all our people on-site. We thank everyone for their compassion and support as we move through this difficult period together,” PEC said.
The company also emphasized that safety remains its top priority, adding that internal reviews and inspections are underway to determine the root cause of the incident. PEC said it is working closely with government authorities to strengthen preventive measures and ensure the continued safety of all personnel within the facility.
“We ask for understanding and respect for the privacy of the families affected as they grieve and recover, our teams continue to work closely with authorities and medical personnel to ensure that every form of assistance is extended without delay.” PEC added.
The Pagbilao Power Station, located in Barangay Ibabang Polo, is one of the country’s major coal-fired power facilities supplying electricity to the Luzon grid. Operated by Pagbilao Energy Corporation in partnership with Therma Luzon Inc., the plant plays a vital role in meeting the region’s growing energy demand.
No comments