DOE-Meralco program connects 18,000 homes

MANILA, Philippines - Households given legal access to electricity under the partnership of Department of Energy (DOE) and Manila Electric Co. (Meralco) hit the 18,000-mark of of mid-October.

From July 8 to Oct. 14, the DOE said a total of 18,026 households were energized in the areas of Gaya-Gaya, San Jose del Monte and other municipalities in Bulacan, Laguna and some parts of Rizal, Happy Land Aroma, the Baseco Compound, Isla Puting Bato and Parola Area in Tondo, Manila.

This was done through DOE’s Household Electrification Program in collaboration with Meralco. The power distributor installs regular service and pre-paid electricity service schemes in these areas.

“I am committed to accomplishing the marching order of the President to provide our people the chance to enjoy a more comfortable quality of life through the delivery of safe, stable and reliable electricity services,” DOE Secretary Alfonso Cusi said.

As energy secretary, Cusi has set a goal of 100 percent household electrification, including the marginalized and informal settlers.

On July 7, the DOE chief met with Meralco officials to provide electricity services to poor communities within Meralco’s franchise area.