The Manila Electric Company (Meralco) has mobilized its response teams as Tropical Depression Isang threatens to bring heavy rains and flooding, which could trigger widespread electrical hazards.

“Safety is our top priority especially during this period when flooding and heavy rains pose greater risks of electrical accidents,” said Meralco Vice President and Head of Corporate Communications Joe R. Zaldarriaga. “We encourage our customers to be extra vigilant this rainy season and to observe safety measures before, during, and after a flood.”

The power distributor urged customers to switch off the main electrical power switch or circuit breaker once floodwaters start entering their homes, and to ensure they are completely dry before handling any electrical facility.

Meralco also reminded households to avoid exposed electrical wires, unplug appliances, and disconnect permanently connected equipment when possible. After floodwaters subside, customers should have a licensed electrician inspect electrical systems for possible seepage before using them again. Handling a circuit breaker or fuse with wet hands or while standing on a wet surface is strongly discouraged.

For service concerns and power outage reports, customers can reach Meralco through its official Facebook page, X account, hotlines 16211, or via text at 0920-9716211 and 0917-5516211.

As the rainy season intensifies, Meralco stressed the importance of preventive safety measures, both for household protection and to minimize risks to grid reliability.

What other measures should utilities and communities put in place to strengthen power safety and reliability during the typhoon season?

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