No Disconnections Until mid-April - Meralco

Photo: Meralco Facebook page

The Manila Electric Co. (Meralco) has announced the suspension of all disconnection activities in its franchise area until April 15 following the government’s announcement placing Metro Manila, Bulacan, Cavite, Laguna and Rizal under a one-week Enhanced Community Quarantine (ECQ).

“Cognizant of the plight of our customers amid these challenging times brought about by the pandemic, and in support of the government’s effort to manage the transmission of COVID-19, we commit to put on hold all disconnection activities until April 15 2021,” Ferdinand O. Geluz, Meralco FVP and Chief Commercial Officer, said.

He added, “We hope this measure will contribute to easing the burden of our customers and provide enough relief and time for them to settle their bills.”

Geluz reiterated that Meralco will continue to be very considerate during these trying times and vowed to assist its customers in need of help with their electricity concerns.

In an earlier statement, Meralco committed that it will continue vital operations such as meter reading following the order of the Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) and will also continue to work round the clock to serve its customers.

Meralco encouraged customers to send a personal message (PM) via Facebook Messenger, Twitter or call its 16211 hotline before going to Meralco Business Centers (BCs) - which will be on skeleton force - for any inquiries and concerns on billing and payments.

This measure ensures that customers can save time and effort, but more importantly, minimizes any potential and unnecessary exposure to the virus.

The distribution utility has announced that its BCs will remain open to accept payments, applications and customer assistance. Business hours will be from 7am to 3pmfrom Monday to Friday and 7am to 12pm on Saturdays. Business Centers will be closed from April 1 to 3 in observance of Maundy Thursday until Black Saturday.

Electric meter reading and delivery of bills will still continue during this time, with Meralco personnel working under the strict health guidelines of the IATF.

“Meralco business operations, including meter reading activities, will continue despite stricter quarantine measures,” said Geluz. “Rest assured there will be strict implementation of health protocols in order to safeguard the health and safety of both customers and our personnel. This will ensure that actual consumption for the month will be billed accordingly.”