MANILA - The Department of Energy said it was committed to providing "24/7" power, as the Luzon lockdown to stop the spread of COVID-19 threatened to delay some infrastructure investments.

Some foreign contractors and workers were barred from traveling while delays in the delivery of imported parts and equipment needed for energy facilities was observed, Energy Secretary Alfonso Cusi said in a statement.

While defeating the virus is the "primordial concern," Cusi said the DOE "is committed to fully coordinate and provide 24/7 energy services."

Electricity demand dropped by around 30 percent due to the lockdown imposed by the government to contain the virus, he said.

Classes, offices and businesses in Metro Manila, except for essential services, were suspended until April 12 to contain the spread of the disease.

"There are also delays in on-going construction and other activities in the energy sector...Hence, these may result to delays in the completion of on-going projects and repairs and further hinder energy-related investment," Cusi said.