Meralco Intensifies Crackdown On Meter Theft

The Manila Electric Company (Meralco) has ramped up its campaign against electric meter theft following a surge in incidents of stolen meters and electrical wires being sold on various online platforms.

Meralco’s intensified campaign underscores the company’s commitment to safeguarding its infrastructure and maintaining reliable electricity service for its customers.

This illegal activity poses a significant threat to the integrity and safety of the electricity service Meralco delivers to its customers.

In response, Meralco is collaborating closely with the Philippine National Police and other government agencies to combat and prevent these thefts.

“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,” emphasized Joe R. Zaldarriaga, Meralco Vice President and Head of Corporate Communications.

The statistics are alarming. From January to June 2024, 1,131 meters have been reported stolen, marking a 63% increase from the 695 meters reported stolen during the same period last year.

Over the last five years (2019-2023), Meralco has recorded a total of 4,591 stolen electric meters.

In light of these rising theft incidents, Meralco has warned the public that all its meters are equipped with unique identifiers, enabling the company to trace and identify them as their property.

Zaldarriaga urged the public to report any suspicious activities or stolen meters to Meralco or the authorities to help curb this illegal practice and ensure the safety and integrity of electric service.

Theft and resale of electric meters are serious offenses that violate Republic Act No. 7832, also known as the Anti-Electricity and Electric Transmission Lines/Materials Pilferage Act of 1994.

Offenders face a minimum of 12 years imprisonment and/or fines ranging from P50,000 to P100,000. Additionally, buyers or users of stolen meters are subject to legal penalties under Presidential Decree No. 1612, or the Anti-Fencing Law of 1972.

Meralco’s intensified campaign underscores the company’s commitment to safeguarding its infrastructure and maintaining reliable electricity service for its customers.