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Advocates Philippines
Fake Power Line Scheme Busted In Makati; Man Accused Of Supplying Electricity To 20 Homes
Photo credit: NCRPO
A 32-year-old man was arrested in Makati after authorities caught him allegedly running an illegal electricity operation that supplied power to around 20 households.
According to the Philippine National Police, the suspect was apprehended early Tuesday morning, April 21, at around 1:20 a.m. in Barangay Palanan. He had reportedly been posing as a barangay volunteer while installing “jumper” connections—an illegal method of tapping into power lines.
Authorities recovered several electrical cables from the suspect, believed to have been used in the unauthorized setup.
The man is now facing charges for violating Republic Act No. 7832, which penalizes electricity theft and illegal connections.
Power distributor Meralco quickly issued a warning following the incident, stressing the dangers of tampering with electrical facilities.
Meralco Vice President and Head of Corporate Communications Joe R. Zaldarriaga said such illegal activities are strictly prohibited and can disrupt power service for legitimate customers. He also warned that these acts pose serious risks, including electrocution and even death, due to the high voltage carried by power lines.
Under the law, stealing or illegally using electrical facilities can result in a prison term of at least 12 years and fines ranging from ₱50,000 to ₱100,000. Those who knowingly buy stolen electrical materials may also face charges under the Anti-Fencing Law.
Meralco is urging the public to stay vigilant and report any suspicious activity involving electrical connections. Concerns can be reported through the MyMeralco app, official social media pages, text hotlines, or by calling their customer service hotline.
Authorities continue to remind the public that while illegal connections may seem like a shortcut, they come with serious legal consequences—and life-threatening risks.
According to the Philippine National Police, the suspect was apprehended early Tuesday morning, April 21, at around 1:20 a.m. in Barangay Palanan. He had reportedly been posing as a barangay volunteer while installing “jumper” connections—an illegal method of tapping into power lines.
Authorities recovered several electrical cables from the suspect, believed to have been used in the unauthorized setup.
The man is now facing charges for violating Republic Act No. 7832, which penalizes electricity theft and illegal connections.
Power distributor Meralco quickly issued a warning following the incident, stressing the dangers of tampering with electrical facilities.
Meralco Vice President and Head of Corporate Communications Joe R. Zaldarriaga said such illegal activities are strictly prohibited and can disrupt power service for legitimate customers. He also warned that these acts pose serious risks, including electrocution and even death, due to the high voltage carried by power lines.
Under the law, stealing or illegally using electrical facilities can result in a prison term of at least 12 years and fines ranging from ₱50,000 to ₱100,000. Those who knowingly buy stolen electrical materials may also face charges under the Anti-Fencing Law.
Meralco is urging the public to stay vigilant and report any suspicious activity involving electrical connections. Concerns can be reported through the MyMeralco app, official social media pages, text hotlines, or by calling their customer service hotline.
Authorities continue to remind the public that while illegal connections may seem like a shortcut, they come with serious legal consequences—and life-threatening risks.
Apr 23, 2026
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