Manila Electric Company (Meralco) crews continued working around the clock to restore electricity in communities affected by heavy rains and flooding brought by the enhanced southwest monsoon or Habagat.
As of 4 p.m. on August 30, around 49,000 customers were experiencing power interruptions across Meralco’s franchise area, with nearly half of them located in flooded communities.
The affected customers represent less than one percent of Meralco’s total customer base, with most outages reported in parts of Cavite, Bulacan and Metro Manila.
In Valenzuela City, Meralco crews were deployed to repair damaged facilities and restore electricity as soon as conditions allowed.
“Our crews are working round-the-clock to attend to electricity service concerns and restore power service to affected areas as soon as possible and once it is safe to do so,” Meralco Vice President and Head of Corporate Communications Joe R. Zaldarriaga said.
“We appeal to our customers for their understanding as we prioritize safety while carrying out restoration activities,” he added.
Meralco stressed that restoration work in flooded communities may take longer because crews must first ensure that electrical facilities and surrounding areas are safe before power can be switched back on.
The utility also warned the public against approaching fallen power lines, damaged electrical facilities and appliances or other electrical equipment that may have been submerged in floodwaters.
“We are also reminding everyone to stay away from downed power lines, damaged electrical facilities, and electrical equipment that may have been submerged in floodwaters. Kindly report any hazardous electrical situation to Meralco,” Zaldarriaga said.
Customers may report outages and other electricity-related concerns through Meralco’s official Facebook page and its X account, @meralco. Reports may also be sent via text to 0920-9716211 or 0917-5516211, or through the Meralco Hotline at 16211.
Meralco said its personnel will continue restoration operations until electricity service is safely restored to all affected communities.