Manila Electric Company stepped up clearing operations near Antipolo Cathedral, part of a broader campaign that has already removed over 25,000 kilograms of unauthorized wires across its franchise area this year.

The operation aims to ensure public safety ahead of the expected influx of devotees during Holy Week.

On March 27, Meralco conducted wire-clearing activities along P. Oliveros Street in Antipolo City.

The cleanup targeted overhead cables and illegal attachments that could pose hazards to pedestrians and motorists.

The operation was led by Antipolo City Mayor Jun Ynares and Meralco Vice President and Head of Corporate Communications Joe R. Zaldarriaga.

The cleared route leads to the Antipolo Cathedral, one of the country’s most visited pilgrimage destinations during the Lenten season. Thousands of devotees visit the church each year for traditional Holy Week observances.

Wire clearing helps reduce risks from sagging or illegally attached cables along busy streets. Removing these attachments also prevents strain on power poles and electrical infrastructure.

“Meralco will continue to conduct more operations like this in close coordination with local government units to ensure public safety, especially with the expected surge of the devotees this coming Holy Week,” Zaldarriaga said.

Unauthorized wire attachments can compromise the integrity of power facilities. They can also interfere with routine maintenance and emergency repairs.

Since the start of the year, Meralco has already removed more than 25,000 kilograms of illegal wire attachments across its franchise area.

The initiative forms part of the company’s Anti-Urban Blight operations, which aim to address safety risks caused by unauthorized cables and attachments on utility poles.

Meralco serves around 8.2 million customers across Metro Manila and nearby provinces. It continues to work with local government units to conduct similar clearing activities across its service area.

Meanwhile, Meralco assured customers in its franchise area of stable and reliable power service during the Holy Week.

“We join the nation in observing a solemn and safe Holy Week. As a 24/7 service provider, we assure our customers that our crews are fully prepared to respond to any power-related concerns that may arise,” Zaldarriaga said.

Meralco also issued safety reminders for customers, especially those planning to leave their homes for an extended period of time. Customers are advised to unplug appliances when not in use or before leaving the house; avoid overloading outlets with extension cords or octopus connections; keep wires organized and away from foot traffic; and ensure electrical devices are kept away from water.

For electricity service concerns, customers may contact Meralco through 0920-9716211 and 0917-5516211 or through the Meralco hotline at 16211. Meralco can also be reached via its mobile app My Meralco and its official social media pages on Facebook and X. Meralco business centers, meanwhile, will be closed from Maundy Thursday to Easter Sunday. Operations will resume on April 6.

Follow Power Philippines on Facebook and LinkedIn or join ourViber community for more updates.