The Manila Electric Company (Meralco) has renewed its warning to the public on the dangers of stealing power cables and other electrical facilities following a recent incident in Quezon City that disrupted electricity service to thousands of customers.
Meralco said that at around 3:00 a.m. on January 4, a 37-year-old man attempted to steal power cables, triggering a temporary power interruption that affected nearly 8,000 customers. Electricity service was fully restored by 7:00 a.m. after Meralco crews promptly repaired the damaged lines.
The suspect was injured during the incident and was brought to a hospital, where he remains in critical condition.
“This incident underscores the grave dangers of stealing power cables and electrical facilities,” said Meralco Senior Vice President and Head of Networks Froilan J. Savet. “Beyond the inconvenience caused by service interruptions, these illegal acts pose serious, life-threatening risks due to the high voltage of Meralco facilities. Any contact with energized equipment can result in severe injury or even death.”
Savet again urged the public to help ensure safe and reliable electricity service by immediately reporting any suspicious activity involving Meralco facilities.
Meralco also reminded the public that wire theft is a criminal offense under Republic Act No. 7832, or the Anti-Electricity Pilferage Act, which carries penalties including imprisonment and fines.
Customers may report electricity service concerns through the MyMeralco app, Meralco’s official social media accounts on Facebook and X, via text at 0920-971-6211 or 0917-551-6211, or by calling the Meralco Hotline at 16211.