Meralco and PNP Join Forces To Secure Power Services

In a decisive move to protect the integrity of its power distribution system and ensure the safety of its customers, the Manila Electric Company (Meralco) has joined forces with the Philippine National Police (PNP).

United Against Electricity Theft. Meralco and the Philippine National Police (PNP) have forged a stronger partnership to combat the theft of electricity distribution facilities. Pictured (L-R) are Meralco Head of Corporate Security Management Michael M. Saguin, First Vice President and Head of Networks Froilan J. Savet, Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer Ronnie L. Aperocho, PNP Chief Police Gen. Rommel Francisco D. Marbil, and PNP-CIDG Acting Director Police Brigadier Gen. Nicolas D. Torre III. I Photo: MERALCO

A memorandum of understanding (MOU) was signed recently between the two institutions to intensify their fight against the rampant theft of electricity distribution facilities, a persistent issue that jeopardizes the delivery of reliable and safe power services.

The partnership, facilitated through the PNP’s Crime Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG), aims to investigate and prosecute individuals involved in the theft of distribution facilities, particularly electric meters.

Since the start of 2024, Meralco has reported 2,084 stolen meters—a sobering statistic that highlights the urgency of addressing the problem. Over the last five years, the utility has recorded a staggering total of 4,591 stolen meters, underscoring the scale of the issue.

Under the MOU, Meralco will provide training sessions to PNP-CIDG personnel, equipping them with knowledge to identify power distribution facilities effectively and apprehend violators.

The utility will also extend legal assistance to PNP personnel involved in cases related to electricity theft.

On its part, the PNP will offer operational support to Meralco, assisting in investigations and providing manpower to strengthen enforcement efforts. Together, the two organizations will conduct community roadshows to educate the public about the risks associated with using stolen distribution materials.

These initiatives aim to raise awareness at the grassroots level and emphasize the severe impact of these illegal activities on residents’ lives and livelihoods.

The collaboration will also ensure stringent enforcement of Republic Act No. 7832, or the Anti-Electricity and Electric Transmission Lines/Materials Pilferage Act of 1994, which prescribes penalties of at least 12-years imprisonment and fines of up to ₱100,000 for offenders.

Furthermore, buyers and users of stolen meters may face charges under the Anti-Fencing Law (Presidential Decree No. 1612).

Speaking at the MOU signing, Meralco Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer Ronnie L. Aperocho highlighted the challenges posed by theft and other untoward incidents affecting the utility’s facilities.

“Thankfully, the Philippine National Police has always provided us with great assistance—from consultation and investigation to arresting offenders. Through this partnership, we look forward to a more productive collaboration. All these we do to give a safer and brighter tomorrow for our fellow Filipinos and for the country,” he said.

To ensure the partnership’s sustainability, a technical working group will be established to regularly evaluate processes and explore further collaborations.

The group will oversee the compliance and enforcement of existing laws while seeking innovative strategies to safeguard Meralco’s distribution network.

This strengthened alliance between Meralco and the PNP not only bolsters the fight against electricity theft but also sets the foundation for a more secure and reliable energy future for millions of Filipinos.