Meralco intensifies gov't collaboration vs meter theft

By Komfie Manalo

The Manila Electric Company (Meralco) has intensified its partnership with concerned government agencies in its fight against electric meter theft amid reports of increasing incidents of stolen meters and electric wires sold online.

In a statement, Meralco said it is coordinating with the Philippine National Police and other stakeholders to combat and prevent these theft incidents, given the threat the illegal activity poses to the integrity and safety of the distribution utility's electricity service.

"We are reminding the public that these meters are the property of Meralco, and we do not charge our customers for their use. Stealing, reselling, and buying these meters are illegal activities punishable under the law. Anyone caught in possession of these stolen equipment will be prosecuted and penalized accordingly," Meralco vice president and head of Corporate Communications Joe R. Zaldarriaga said.

From January to June 2024, 1,131 meters were reported stolen, a 63% increase from the 695 reported stolen during the same period last year. In the last five years, from 2019 to 2023, Meralco has recorded 4,591 stolen electric meters.

Given the escalating number of theft incidents, Meralco also cautioned the public that it employs unique identifiers on all its meters, making it easier to trace and identify them as property of the company.

"We urge the public to report any suspicious activities or stolen meters to Meralco or the authorities to help us curb this illegal practice and ensure the safety and integrity of electric service," Zaldarriaga said.

Stealing and reselling electric meters are illegal activities that constitute a violation of Republic Act No. 7832 or the Anti-Electricity and Electric Transmission Lines/Materials Pilferage Act of 1994. 

Under the law, these are punishable with at least 12 years imprisonment and/or a fine ranging from P50,000 to P100,000. Buyers or users of stolen meters, meanwhile, are also subject to legal penalties under Presidential Decree No. 1612 or the Anti-Fencing Law of 1972.