DOE-identified houses in Isla Puting Bato were energized as beneficiaries of  intensified electrification activities. (Photo by: MERALCO)

(Taguig City). The Department of Energy (DOE) has strengthened its partnership with the Manila Electric Company (MERALCO), the largest distribution company in the country, to better serve electricity consumers within its franchise area.

Energy Secretary Alfonso G. Cusi held a dialogue with MERALCO to discuss issues and concerns encountered by the utility, such as right-of-way, various on-going construction works, peace and order, and other barriers to the immediate energization of target communities. 

After the initial meeting last July 07 with MERALCO, a total of 2,082 households were energized from 08 July to 24 July 2016 in the DOE-identified communities. MERALCO installed combined regular service and pre-paid electricity service schemes for the new household connections.

A total of 1,126 households were energized by MERALCO through a partnership with the National Housing Authority in the towns of Gaya-Gaya (Towerville), San Jose del Monte, Balagtas, Sta. Maria, Angono, Cainta, Marikina, Rosario, San Pedro, Calamba, and San Pablo.

For the Elevated Metering Center, a total 99 house connections were installed in Isla Puting Bato and Parola Area in Manila.  

Meanwhile, a total of 857 homes were energized in the Happy Land Aroma and BASECO Compound in Tondo, España, Malate, Tutuban, Balagtas, Balintawak, Parañaque City, and Caloocan City in Metro Manila, Malolos in Bulacan, Calamba City and San Pedro in Laguna, Lucena City in Quezon, and Masinag in Antipolo City, Rizal through the Relocatees and Informal Settlers (RAISE) Program of MERALCO.

In the same meeting, Sec. Cusi and MERALCO President Oscar S. Reyes vowed to help people living below the poverty line to have access to electricity.

Sec. Cusi also suggested that MERALCO should check relocation sites, particularly those that pose potential fire hazards.

The DOE fully supports President Rodrigo R. Duterte’s commitment to serve the marginalized sectors, ensure inclusive growth and uplift the lives of all Filipinos.

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