Cognizant of the need for electricity in the midst of calamity, Meralco announced that electricity service has been fully restored to customers affected by power outages caused by the enhanced southwest monsoon or Habagat. Crews were immediately deployed to conduct line clearing, repairs, and safety checks to ensure the quick restoration of service in the hardest-hit areas.
“We are now conducting mopping up operations and our crews will not stop until we restore service to the affected customers,” Meralco Vice President and Head of Corporate Communications Joe R. Zaldarriaga said.
As of 7:00 a.m. today, Meralco is working to restore power to the last 1,700 affected customers, who are mostly in parts of Bulacan, Metro Manila, Batangas, and Cavite.
Meralco also continues to be on heightened alert for the possible impact of Tropical Storm Opong and southwest monsoon rains.
The power distributor has put in place necessary measures to mitigate the possible impact of the weather disturbance. Part of these are reminders to billboard owners and operators to temporarily roll their billboards up to prevent these structures from being toppled by possible strong winds.
On Guard for New Weather Disturbances
Meralco remains on heightened alert as Tropical Storm Opong and continued Habagat rains threaten to affect its franchise area. The company has activated contingency measures to mitigate potential impacts, including safety reminders to billboard owners and operators to temporarily roll up their billboards to avoid accidents from strong winds.
“We continue to closely monitor weather developments to ensure the readiness of our crews and facilities. We also remind everyone to observe electrical safety, especially in flood-prone areas,” Zaldarriaga added.
Safety Reminders for Customers
Meralco urged customers to take extra precautions in case of flooding and power interruptions:
Switch off the main power supply and avoid touching outlets or appliances with wet hands.
Unplug appliances, turn off permanently connected equipment, and unscrew light bulbs if possible.
Use rubber gloves and rubber-soled shoes when cleaning mud and debris from electrical equipment.
Ensure all electrical wires, outlets, and devices are completely dry before using.
Have a licensed electrician inspect appliances and wiring systems before turning them back on, and never use flood-damaged electrical equipment.
Reporting Power Concerns
Customers may report outages and other service-related concerns through Meralco’s official social media pages on Facebook and Twitter (@meralco), by texting 0920-9716211 or 0917-5516211, or by calling the Meralco Hotline at 16211.