BUSINESS
Advocates Philippines
Meralco, PNP Shut Down Illegal Meter Trade In Manila
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Authorities have cracked down on illegal electricity-related activities in Manila after Meralco, working closely with the Philippine National Police (PNP), dismantled an alleged illegal electric meter selling operation in Sta. Cruz, Manila on Tuesday, January 13.
The joint operation led to the recovery of 12 allegedly refurbished stolen electric meters believed to be owned by Meralco. According to the PNP Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG), the bust followed weeks of surveillance conducted with technical support from the power distributor.
Investigators said the operation involved stealing electric meters, refurbishing them, and reselling them online, posing risks not only to Meralco but also to public safety. Meralco is set to file charges against the establishment involved in the illegal trade.
“We commend the swift action of the PNP in addressing this illegal activity. We assure our customers that Meralco remains committed to working closely with authorities to protect the integrity of electricity service and ensure public safety,” Meralco Vice President and Head of Corporate Communications Joe R. Zaldarriaga said.
Meralco reminded the public that stealing and reselling electric meters and other power distribution equipment is a criminal offense under Republic Act No. 7832, or the Anti-Electricity Pilferage Act, which carries penalties of imprisonment and/or fines ranging from ₱50,000 to ₱100,000.
Authorities also warned that buyers or users of stolen electric meters may be held liable under Presidential Decree No. 1612, also known as the Anti-Fencing Law of 1972.
“We urge the public to immediately report to Meralco or authorities any suspicious activity related to Meralco facilities, such as electric meters and power cables. Rest assured that we will continue to work closely with the PNP to combat theft of electric distribution facilities and other unlawful practices that threaten public safety and the integrity of our electricity service,” Zaldarriaga added.
Customers may report electricity service concerns through the MyMeralco app, Meralco’s official social media pages, by texting 0920-9716211 or 0917-5516211, or by calling the Meralco Hotline at 16211.
The joint operation led to the recovery of 12 allegedly refurbished stolen electric meters believed to be owned by Meralco. According to the PNP Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG), the bust followed weeks of surveillance conducted with technical support from the power distributor.
Investigators said the operation involved stealing electric meters, refurbishing them, and reselling them online, posing risks not only to Meralco but also to public safety. Meralco is set to file charges against the establishment involved in the illegal trade.
“We commend the swift action of the PNP in addressing this illegal activity. We assure our customers that Meralco remains committed to working closely with authorities to protect the integrity of electricity service and ensure public safety,” Meralco Vice President and Head of Corporate Communications Joe R. Zaldarriaga said.
Meralco reminded the public that stealing and reselling electric meters and other power distribution equipment is a criminal offense under Republic Act No. 7832, or the Anti-Electricity Pilferage Act, which carries penalties of imprisonment and/or fines ranging from ₱50,000 to ₱100,000.
Authorities also warned that buyers or users of stolen electric meters may be held liable under Presidential Decree No. 1612, also known as the Anti-Fencing Law of 1972.
“We urge the public to immediately report to Meralco or authorities any suspicious activity related to Meralco facilities, such as electric meters and power cables. Rest assured that we will continue to work closely with the PNP to combat theft of electric distribution facilities and other unlawful practices that threaten public safety and the integrity of our electricity service,” Zaldarriaga added.
Customers may report electricity service concerns through the MyMeralco app, Meralco’s official social media pages, by texting 0920-9716211 or 0917-5516211, or by calling the Meralco Hotline at 16211.
Jan 14, 2026
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