The Philippine National Police (PNP) and Manila Electric Company (Meralco) have agreed to jointly address the growing issue of electricity theft in the country.

On Tuesday, the PNP and Meralco formalized their partnership through a ceremonial signing of the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) at the Lopez Building, Meralco Compound, in Pasig City.

PNP spokesperson BGen. Jean Fajardo said the collaboration aims to tackle the escalating problem of electricity theft while reinforcing both parties' shared commitment “to public safety, the rule of law, and the improvement of the quality of life for all Filipinos.”

“As part of the agreement, Meralco has committed to launching information campaigns on energy safety and disaster preparedness,” she said.

Fajardo added that the company has also pledged to support PNP initiatives, such as promoting safe electricity use, providing specialized training, extending legal assistance, and undertaking Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) projects "aimed at benefiting communities across the country."

In signing the MOU, PNP chief General Rommel Francisco Marbil praised Meralco’s dedication to public safety and its exemplary corporate responsibility.

“This partnership sets an inspiring example for other organizations to collaborate with the government,” Marbil said.

He also emphasized that the PNP and Meralco are united in their mission to create safer, stronger, and more resilient communities, demonstrating the power of public-private partnerships in addressing societal challenges.

“This MOU is a significant step in enhancing the cooperation between law enforcement and private sector entities, ultimately contributing to the ongoing effort to promote public safety and social welfare across the nation,” Marbil added.

Meralco was represented by Ronni Aperocho, Chief Operating Officer; Engr. Froilan Savet, Head of Networks; and Michael Saguin, Head of Corporate Security Management.

Marbil and Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) chief BGen. Nicolas Torre III led the PNP delegation.