Is Meralco ready for Metro Manila earthquake?

Addressing netizens’ concerns about electricity during calamities such as earthquakes, Meralco Vice President and Head of Corporate Communications Joe Zaldarriaga, widely known as “Manong Joe,” shared the company’s safety measures.

“Ang kaligtasan ng bawat customer ang prayoridad ng Meralco (The safety of every customer is Meralco’s top priority),” he assured.

He then outlined Meralco’s preventive measures even before calamities such as floods or earthquakes strike:

• Replacing electric poles with stronger ones made of concrete and steel

• Relocating poles to safer areas

• Conducting regular tree trimming and wire clearing to prevent power lines from being affected by storms or earthquakes

• Performing re-insulation and conductor shielding of power lines

• Strengthening lightning protection systems

• Installing smart devices to quickly detect potential issues affecting power service

• Temporarily de-energizing power lines when necessary to ensure public safety

Manong Joe also reminded the public that after a calamity, if anyone sees a damaged power facility or fallen power lines, “Wag nyo hong lapitan,” he said. “Hayaan nyo hong ang aming crew ang gumawa ng kinakailangan para masigurong ligtas ang pagkukumpuni,” he added.

("Do not go near. Allow our crew to perform the necessary work to ensure safe repairs.")

He further advised the public to ensure their homes are safe by keeping internal wirings in good condition. Once floodwaters begin to rise, unplug all appliances and turn off the main switch.

For reports of electrical hazards, Manong Joe urged customers to contact Meralco through the My Meralco App, send a message via Facebook or X (formerly Twitter), call the hotline 16211, or text 0920-971-6211 (Smart) and 0917-551-6211 (Globe).