The Department of Energy (DOE) is reportedly tightening its monitoring and enforcement of policies against illegal electricity pilferage.
In its latest program “Brigada Kontra Jumper,” the agency is encouraging the public to report observed violations involving electricity use through EGOV PH.
Illegal electricity pilferage includes electricity “jumpers,” or unauthorized wires or connections to power lines that bypass the electric meter, as well as improvised connections in houses or buildings.
Other violations include tampered meters, such as meter enclosures that have been opened, altered, or damaged, and the removal of meter seals.
It is also considered illegal when electrical wires are left exposed, as these can spark and cause fires, electrocution, and other accidents.
As part of the campaign, the DOE is also planning to increase the penalty for violations of anti-pilferage rules to as much as P50,000, up from P5,000.
The agency also plans to strengthen coordination with the Philippine National Police (PNP), DILG, LGUs and electric cooperatives to enforce the campaign against electricity theft.
Meanwhile, Energy Secretary Sharon Garin assured the public that the identities of individuals who report incidents through eGov PH will remain anonymous for their safety.
Reports may also include photos of the suspected violation, the location, and other information that could help the DOE in its investigation.
The department also said that reported illegal connections will undergo a legal investigation by the concerned electric cooperatives before a violation is confirmed and penalties are imposed.
Garin urged the public to report only cases of electricity pilferage that they have personally witnessed to avoid confusion and prevent misinformation that could lead to erroneous reports. – Vanessa Cleofas, Eurotv News