POWER distributor Manila Electric Co. (Meralco) said it is prepared to respond to electricity service concerns across its franchise area all throughout the observance of All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day, or “Undas.”
In a statement on Thursday, Meralco said that its crews and personnel will be on standby 24/7 for any troubles and concerns related to its facilities.
“Meralco will be ready to respond to any power-related concerns of our customers to help ensure safe and reliable electricity service while families spend time to honor and remember their departed loved ones,” Meralco Vice-President and Head of Corporate Communications Joe R. Zaldarriaga said.
Meralco business centers will be temporarily closed from Nov. 1-2. Customers may still access the utility’s digital channels, social media platforms and hotlines for assistance.
The power distributor reminded its customers to observe basic electrical safety practices, particularly when leaving their homes for the long weekend.
Meanwhile, the company said it is ready to respond to the possible impact of the ongoing El Niño phenomenon amid an expected increase in demand. Its facilities, systems, and response teams remain prepared to deliver electricity service amid potentially higher demand.
“We expect electricity demand to rise as temperatures increase during El Niño. To help mitigate the impact on power consumption and electricity bills, we encourage customers to adopt simple energy conservation habits and use electricity more efficiently,” Mr. Zaldarriaga said.
Meralco’s controlling stakeholder, Beacon Electric Asset Holdings, Inc., is partly owned by PLDT Inc.
Hastings Holdings, Inc., a unit of PLDT Beneficial Trust Fund subsidiary MediaQuest Holdings, Inc., has an interest in BusinessWorld through the Philippine Star Group, which it controls. — Sheldeen Joy Talavera