Manuel V. Pangilinan-led Manila Electric Company (Meralco) and the Philippine National Police (PNP) have reaffirmed its partnership in jointly combating the theft and pilferage of power distribution facilities and materials within the power utility’s franchise area.
Seen in photo (L-R) are Meralco First Vice President and Head of Facilities, Safety and Security Management Jerry B. Lao; Meralco Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer Ronnie L. Aperocho; PNP Chief PGEN Jose Melencio C. Nartatez; and PNP Acting Director for Investigation and Detective Management PBGEN Matthew P. Baccay during the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signing ceremony held on June 8, 2026 at the PNP headquarters at Camp BGen Rafael T. Crame, Quezon City.
The renewed agreement underscores the shared commitment of Meralco and the PNP to intensify efforts in curbing the theft of electric distribution and metering facilities through stronger law enforcement, coordinated investigations, and the stricter implementation of the Anti-Electricity and Electric Transmission Lines/Materials Pilferage Act (Republic Act No. 7832). The partnership also seeks to develop more effective preventive measures and strengthen public awareness on the dangers and consequences of using stolen electric distribution facilities such as meters, cables, and wires.
Meralco highlighted the importance of the collaboration in safeguarding both public safety and the reliability of electric service. In 2025 alone, more than 5,000 illegal service connections were apprehended and over 13,000 tampered meters were replaced.
“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. 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,” Aperocho said.
