PASIG CITY — Manila Electric Company (Meralco) and the Philippine National Police (PNP) have renewed their partnership to strengthen efforts against the theft and pilferage of power distribution facilities and materials within the power utility’s franchise area.
The renewed agreement reinforces the commitment of both organizations to combat the illegal theft of electric distribution and metering facilities through intensified law enforcement operations, coordinated investigations, and stricter enforcement of Republic Act No. 7832, or the Anti-Electricity and Electric Transmission Lines/Materials Pilferage Act.
Under the partnership, Meralco and the PNP will also work together in developing preventive measures and expanding public awareness campaigns on the dangers and legal consequences of using stolen electrical facilities and materials, including electric meters, cables, and wires.
Meralco emphasized that protecting power distribution assets is essential not only for safeguarding public safety but also for ensuring the reliability and quality of electric service to consumers.
Company officials noted that power facility theft and meter tampering continue to pose risks to communities, potentially causing power interruptions, electrical accidents, and financial losses that ultimately affect customers and the power distribution network.
Data from Meralco showed that in 2025 alone, the utility apprehended more than 5,000 illegal service connections and replaced over 13,000 tampered electric meters across its franchise area.
Meralco First Vice President and Head of Networks Froilan J. Savet, together with PNP officials, led the signing of the renewed agreement aimed at strengthening cooperation in addressing electricity-related crimes.
“We reaffirm our commitment to working hand in hand with the PNP to protect our communities and uphold the integrity of our power distribution system,” said Ronnie L. Aperocho, Meralco Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer.
“This partnership reflects our shared resolve to promote public safety and ensure reliable electric service for our customers. As partners in nation-building, we will continue to support initiatives that help build safer, more secure, and more resilient communities,” he added.
The partnership forms part of Meralco’s broader efforts to protect critical infrastructure, reduce system losses, and promote the safe and legal use of electricity among consumers throughout its service area.
