Manila Electric Company (Meralco) conducted a raid on Friday in residential and commercial areas across Pasay and Parañaque Cities, targeting numerous illegal power connections tapped into the LRT-1 Baclaran Station’s power lines. The operation, prompted by a complaint from LRT-1 management, resulted in the seizure of 100 kilograms of electric cables from 40 homes and 10 businesses, according to a report by Jonathan Andal on “24 Oras.”
Meralco South Metering Services officer Ralph Anthony Supan explained that the illegal connections were directly tapping into the LRT’s meter, even harassing LRT personnel. The raid focused on Barangay 145 in Pasay City and Barangay Baclaran in Parañaque City, where crews removed illegally installed wires.
However, some residents offered explanations for their actions, citing dire circumstances. One resident, identified only as “Rolando,” stated that they resorted to illegal connections because their power had not been restored following a recent fire, and their bedridden father-in-law needed electricity for medical reasons.
Another resident, “Tekla,” who had been using an illegal connection for over a decade, admitted the illegality but emphasized the difficulty of making ends meet.
Meralco countered these arguments, highlighting the cost-effectiveness of legal connections. Gary Antioquia, Meralco Parañaque Relationship Manager, stated that the connection deposit is approximately P1,580, and payment plans are available for those with outstanding bills.
The company warned that individuals caught using illegal connections face penalties under the Anti-Pilferage Law, including fines up to P20,000 and imprisonment for up to 12 years.
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