The Manila Electric Company (Meralco) has ramped up its campaign against what it called a “worrying” trend of electric meters being stolen.
This, after it received reports of stolen meters and electrical wires being sold in various online platforms.
In a statement, Meralco said it is now working with the Philippine National Police and other government agencies to combat and prevent these theft incidents.
The power distributor also warned its consumers against the possession and use of stolen meters.
“We are reminding the public that these meters are the property of Meralco and we do not charge our customers for its use. Stealing, reselling, and buying these meters are illegal activities punishable under the law and anyone caught in possession of these stolen equipment will be prosecuted and penalized accordingly,” Meralco Vice President and Head of Corporate Communications Joe Zaldarriaga said.
From January to June 2024, a total of 1,131 meters have been reported stolen, equivalent to a 63-percent increase from the 695 reported stolen during the same period last year.
In the last five years or from 2019 to 2023, Meralco has recorded a total of 4,591 stolen electric meters.
Meralco also warned the public that it employs unique identifiers on all its meters so that these can be traced and identified as property of the company.
“We urge the public to report any suspicious activities or stolen meters to Meralco or the authorities to help us curb this illegal practice and ensure the safety and integrity of electric service,” Zaldarriaga said.
Stealing and reselling electric meters are illegal activities that constitute violation of Republic Act No. 7832 or the Anti-Electricity and Electric Transmission Lines/Materials Pilferage Act of 1994, while buyers or users of stolen meters are also subject to legal penalties under Presidential Decree No. 1612 or the Anti-Fencing Law of 1972.
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