ERC urged to penalize PECO for poorly maintained facilities

MANILA, Philippines — A lawmaker has urged the Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) to impose penalties on Panay Electric Co. (PECO) for its poorly maintained distribution lines.

Iloilo City Rep. Julienne Baronda said such poorly maintained facilities endanger the lives of residents.

She said “the findings of the ERC are alarming if not appalling for endangering the lives of many Ilonggos.”

She called on the ERC to “institute the necessary disciplinary actions against those who have erred or violated laws/regulations after it shall have received the explanation of PECO.”

Last week, the ERC issued an order directing PECO to submit its explanation for the apparent operational lapses found by the ERC inspection team.

The ERC’s probe was based on Iloilo City Mayor Jerry Treñas’ complaint with Malacañang against the threat to public safety by “inadequately-maintained lines, power outages and hazardous electric posts” owned by PECO.