Fine, jail await people obstructing power, telco rehab

CEBU, Philippines —  Fines and imprisonment are awaiting those individuals and corporations that impede the ongoing rehabilitation effort of the telecommunication companies and power firms in areas in Cebu Province affected by Typhoon Odette.

Cebu Governor Gwendolyn Garcia issued an executive order which prohibits any obstructions citing Republic Act 10121 or the Philippine Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Act of 2010 as the law punishes those who will prevent the rehabilitation efforts in areas affected by the calamities.

The fine ranges from P50,000 to P500,000 and/or imprisonment from six years to 12 years.

“Personnel of telecommunication companies and electric cooperatives performing rehabilitation work were met with difficulties in reaching or repairing their lines, poles, wires, facilities, and equipment due to private persons and or companies that prevent them from repairing the aforementioned,” reads Garcia’s EO No. 1 for the year 2022.

Garcia learned this issue from the telecommunication companies and power firms during their meeting and the governor’s visit in Cordova town last year after Odette.

“We have enough room in CPDRC, I will prepare that for those who are obstructing, impeding the progress of our distribution utilities, in restoring, in reenergizing in bringing back much needed power.. so kindly warn your constituents,” Garcia said.

“I have instructed the PNP to escort our linemen especially in areas that are hostile,” she furthered. — GMR (FREEMAN)