Makati allots P5.7 M to replace stolen streetlights, wires

MANILA, Philippines — The Makati City government is set to spend P5.7 million to replace streetlights, wires and other accessories stolen by thieves since July last year, Mayor Abby Binay said yesterday.

Citing a report from the city engineer’s office, Binay said P4,426,480 will be spent to replace 1,350 street light posts and 54 meters of wiring, damaged due to theft and illegal power connections, while 1,327,944 will cover the labor cost.

“We, as a community, must take action and put a stop to the rampant stealing of wires and accessories of our street lamp posts that repeatedly plunges many of our streets in darkness,” Binay said.  

Aside from the financial burden that the thefts caused the city, Binay also said the thieves are also putting the lives of the residents and the general public in grave danger. 

She said residents should promptly report thefts to the police or notify the city government through its official Facebook page, My Makati, so the culprits can be arrested and jailed. 

Binay also ordered the police and barangay officials to step up operations in areas of the city where the thefts of streetlights and wires are rampant.

Last Aug. 11, alleged wire thieves Mark Gil Gonzales, 27, and Gerry Demalgen, 37 were arrested for setting up illegal power connections.