The Manila Electric Company (Meralco) remains on full alert as its crews and personnel work round-the-clock to restore electricity service to customers affected by power interruptions due to the impact of Severe Tropical Storm Opong (international name: Bualoi).
“We continue to be on full alert while our people on the ground work non-stop to restore electricity service in areas affected by power interruptions due to the storm,” Meralco Vice President and Head of Corporate Communications Joe R. Zaldarriaga said.
As of 12 noon today, there were around 8,900 affected customers, who are mostly in the provinces of Quezon, Laguna, and Cavite.
Meralco also reminded customers, especially those in flooded areas, to continue observing electrical safety practices. These include:
- Ensuring that the main electrical power switch or circuit breaker is off and avoiding contact with electrical appliances or electrical outlets when hands are wet.
- Unplugging appliances from wall sockets and turning off permanently connected equipment and unscrew all light bulbs if possible.
- Cleaning mud and debris from electrical equipment using rubber gloves and rubber-soled shoes
- Ensuring all electrical wires, outlets, and devices are completely dry before using.
- Having a licensed electrician inspect appliances and wiring systems before turning them back on and refraining from using flood-damaged electrical equipment.
To report power outages and other concerns, customers may reach Meralco through its official social media pages on Facebook and Twitter (@meralco). They may also text their concerns to 0920- 9716211 and 0917-5516211 or contact the Meralco Hotline at 16211.