By Robert B. Roque, Jr.
There are two things more shocking than the electricity from our Meralco power outlets: the monthly bills you endure even if they say the power rates are reduced this month; and the suddenness of disconnection when you miss a payment.
It’s more like a sucker punch from an old friend. It “knocks your lights out” because you never expected it coming on that one time you came up short.
Last week, the Supreme Court ruled on a 1999 case and reminded Meralco that “prior notice” of 48 hours before disconnection is not just a fancy phrase but a legal requirement.
Meralco’s Joe Zaldarriaga said the 48-hour notice is a long-time company policy. But it wasn’t always so. And many Filipinos who had experienced appealing, pleading, crying, and begging before linesmen to spare them just a day, a few hours, or till the broth in the kitchen simmers know that better than any Meralco executive.
What’s a shame is that the power distribution firm fought off this case against a Valenzuela City resident tooth and nail for two decades. That’s quite arrogant for the giant firm that has made it their policy to afford their clients a 48-hour grace period.
Thanks to the SC, Meralco is now obliged not to trample on its customers’ consumer rights.
Media needs President’s continued protection
Meanwhile, it’s time for President Marcos to continue his commitment to media safety. The recent shooting of photojournalist Joshua Abiad demands a thorough and no-nonsense investigation to unmask the perpetrators of this crime.
Our mayor in Quezon City, Joy Belmonte, rightly expressed outrage and condemned the incident, vowing to seek accountability.
The Philippine National Police — despite its reputation taking a bad beating in recent months — must act swiftly and determine if this attack was related to Abiad’s reporting and help ensure that justice is served.
Abiad, a court witness against drug traders, may have been targeted due to the nature of his work. This chilling possibility adds urgency to the need for swift action. It is the PNP’s chance to prove its worth in a world darkened by crime, especially since several of its officers have been indicted for dirty links with drug syndicates.
For the President, please continue the media protection you promised. Just as concrete action was taken in the Percy Lapid case, law-enforcement authorities should demonstrate the same commitment to the Abiad incident and end the culture of violence and intimidation against journalists.
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