Manila Electric Company (Meralco), the leading electricity distributor in the Philippines, has signed a memorandum of understanding with the Philippine National Police (PNP) to combat and eliminate the widespread theft of electricity distribution infrastructure.

Meralco and PNP, through its Crime Investigation and Detection Group, will ramp up efforts to investigate and prosecute the persons behind the theft of distribution facilities, particularly electric meters, that pose a threat to the integrity and safety of the power service the distribution utility delivers to its customers.

Through the intensified partnership, Meralco will facilitate training to PNP-CIDG personnel for the identification of power distribution facilities to aid in a more effective apprehension of violators; and provide the necessary legal assistance to PNP when there is a case filed against any of its personnel while performing official functions in relation to theft of distribution facilities.

The PNP, meanwhile, will provide operational support to Meralco and assist in investigations about theft of power distribution facilities.

Meralco and the PNP will also educate and inform the public of the risks of using stolen distribution facilities, which include the conduct of community roadshows at the barangay level to raise public awareness and emphasize the impact of the illegal acts on the life and livelihood of residents.

A technical working group will be established to explore added collaborations and regularly assess processes that will ensure compliance and enforcement of Republic Act 7832 or the Anti-Electricity and Electric Transmission Lines/Materials Pilferage Act of 1994, to protect the integrity of its power distribution system and ensure the delivery of stable and reliable electricity service to customers.

Several variables

“Being a distribution utility, whose assets are exposed and generally accessible to the public, Meralco is challenged by many untoward incidents such as vehicular accidents that damage facilities, illegal service connections, and theft of line materials such as wires and meters. Thankfully, the Philippine National Police has always provided us with great assistance — from consultation and investigation to arresting offenders. Through this partnership, we look forward to a more productive collaboration. All these we do to give a safer and brighter tomorrow for our fellow Filipinos and the country,” Meralco executive vice president and chief operating officer Ronnie Aperocho said.