The Manila Electric Company (Meralco), led by Manuel V. Pangilinan, and the Philippine National Police (PNP) have reaffirmed their partnership to stop the theft and pilferage of power facilities and materials across Meralco’s service area.
The agreement was formalized through a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signed on June 8, 2026, at PNP headquarters in Camp Crame, Quezon City. Present during the event were Meralco executive vice president and COO Ronnie L. Aperocho, Meralco first vice president Jerry B. Lao, PNP Chief PGEN Jose Melencio C. Nartatez, and PNP Acting Director PBGEN Matthew P. Baccay.
Under the renewed deal, both sides will boost law enforcement, coordinate investigations, and strictly enforce Republic Act No. 7832 — the Anti-Electricity and Electric Transmission Lines/Materials Pilferage Act. They will also create better preventive measures and inform the public about the risks and legal penalties of using stolen meters, cables, and wires.
Meralco noted that this cooperation protects public safety and keeps power supply stable. In 2025 alone, the utility recorded over 5,000 illegal connections discovered and more than 13,000 tampered meters replaced.
“We will continue working closely with the PNP to safeguard communities and maintain a reliable power system. This partnership supports safer, more resilient areas for everyone,” said Aperocho.
