The Manila Electric Co., the country’s largest power distributor by sales that is better known as Meralco, has placed its personnel on standby as heavy rains from the southwest monsoon threaten to cause power interruptions and other electricity service concerns across its franchise areas.
Meralco Vice President and Head of Corporate Communications Joe R. Zaldarriaga said the utility is continuously monitoring weather conditions and has readied its crews to respond to possible outages in areas affected by the inclement weather.
“We are continuously monitoring the situation and our crews are ready to attend to any possible electricity service concern in areas that might be affected by the inclement weather,” Zaldarriaga said.
Beyond dispatching repair teams, Meralco has issued precautionary advisories aimed at reducing weather-related risks. The company has also repeatedly urged billboard owners and operators to temporarily roll up their billboards to prevent strong winds from toppling the structures and potentially damaging electrical facilities.
For households hit by flooding, Meralco advised customers to stay away from downed power lines and submerged electrical equipment, turn off the main power switch or circuit breaker, and ensure their hands and feet are dry before touching electrical devices.
Customers should unplug appliances, remove light bulbs when possible, and avoid using any flood-damaged electrical equipment. Mud and debris should be cleaned only with proper protective gear, while wires, outlets, and appliances must be completely dry before being used again.
Meralco also urged the public to charge mobile phones, laptops, radios, and other communication devices while electricity remains available and to keep communication channels open during emergencies.
Customers may report service concerns through Meralco’s official social media pages, text lines, or hotline 16211 as the utility keeps watch on the monsoon’s next move.
