MANILA -- The National Grid Corporation of the Philippines (NGCP) continues its aerial inspection and foot patrol of all areas affected by Typhoon Odette as restoration activities are now ongoing for areas already accessible.

Transmission services were fully restored to the provinces of Capiz, Camiguin, and Misamis Oriental on December 17, and Zamboanga del Sur on December 16.

Restoration is ongoing for transmission facilities serving the entire Samar, Leyte, and Negros islands, Bohol, Cebu, Iloilo, Antique, entire Surigao and Agusan provinces, Compostela Valley, Davao Oriental, Lanao del Norte, and Misamis Occidental.

A total of 65 line gangs or over 500 personnel consisting of engineers and linemen, and 2 choppers were deployed to expedite restoration works.

Based on its completed assessment in Mindanao, NGCP found 134 toppled poles in Surigao del Norte, Surigao del Sur, and Agusan del Sur. Line inspection continues in Visayas, with an initial report of 4 toppled towers, 2 toppled poles, and 1 leaning pole.

Aerial inspections were delayed when NGCP choppers were forced to turn around and return to base yesterday, 17 December, by aviation authorities due to unsafe weather conditions. Today's clearer weather enabled NGCP to proceed with aerial inspections and provide a full picture of the nature and extent of damage.

An official restoration schedule will be posted once assessment is completed. (NGCP)