The Manila Electric Company (Meralco) has heightened its operational readiness and deployed pre-emptive measures across its franchise area as Super Typhoon Inday (international name: Bavi) and the enhanced southwest monsoon threaten to bring heavy rains and strong winds to parts of Luzon.
As a 24/7 electricity distribution utility, Meralco assured customers that its emergency response teams, line crews, and field personnel are on full alert and ready to respond immediately to any power service disruptions caused by severe weather conditions.
The power distributor said it is continuously monitoring weather developments and coordinating closely with the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA), which has warned of intense rainfall and strong to gale-force winds that may affect areas within Meralco’s service territory.
“As a 24-hour service company, our crews are ready to attend to any possible electricity service concern in areas that might be affected by the inclement weather,” said Meralco Vice President and Head of Corporate Communications Joe R. Zaldarriaga.
Beyond emergency response, Meralco has also intensified preventive measures designed to minimize weather-related incidents and help ensure the continuity of electric service wherever conditions allow.
Among these is the company’s continuing appeal to billboard owners and operators to temporarily roll up large advertising materials to reduce the risk of billboards collapsing or damaging power lines during strong winds.
“Meralco has consistently requested billboard owners and operators to temporarily roll up their billboards to prevent these structures from being toppled by the strong winds,” Zaldarriaga said.
The company likewise continues to issue public advisories reminding customers to take the necessary precautions before, during, and after the storm to prevent electrical accidents, particularly in flood-prone areas.
Meralco advises customers to observe the following electrical safety measures:
- Turn off the main power switch or circuit breaker before floodwaters enter the house. Ensure hands and feet are dry before touching any electrical equipment.
- Unplug appliances and switch off permanently connected electrical devices. Remove light bulbs if possible.
- Wear rubber gloves and rubber-soled footwear when cleaning mud or debris from electrical equipment.
- Ensure that electrical wiring, outlets, switches, and appliances are completely dry before restoring power.
- Have all flood-exposed electrical systems and appliances inspected by a licensed electrician before using them again. Never operate equipment that has been submerged in floodwaters.
Zaldarriaga also encouraged the public to prepare alternative means of communication by fully charging mobile phones, laptops, radios, power banks, and other essential devices ahead of the storm. Customers are likewise advised to monitor public service radio stations for updates should power interruptions occur.
To report electricity service concerns, customers may contact Meralco through its official Facebook page, X account (@meralco), text hotlines at 0920-9716211 and 0917-5516211, or call the Meralco Hotline 16211.
With severe weather expected to affect parts of its franchise area, Meralco said it remains committed to ensuring the safety of the public while restoring electricity service as quickly and safely as conditions permit.