ERC orders VECO: Probe extortion

CEBU, Philippines —  The Energy Regulatory Commission has directed the Visayan Electric to conduct a prompt and thorough investigation on the alleged rampant extortion reports gathered in the field and posted on social media.

“The extortion incidents reported to the Commission which involved either VECO contractors or volunteers or both allegedly extorting money from VECO’s consumers to expedite the restoration of their electricity are alarming and need the immediate appropriate action by VECO,” ERC chairperson Agnes VST Devanadera said in a press statement.

Devanadera said that ERC has directed VECO to conduct a prompt and thorough investigation on the matter and submit the result to the Commission in writing within 15 days from receipt of the directive.

ERC also directed VECO to include in its report the actions taken against those involved, if any, and the measures put in place to prevent extortion from being committed.

Accordingly, VECO was also instructed to expedite the restoration of electricity in its franchise area and inform ERC and its consumers of the progress of its restoration, including the challenges encountered.

The commission said it received reports through various platforms, notably from social media, that the delay in restoring electricity in Cebu is not due to the damaged distribution lines but due to the alleged rampant bribery and corruption of some people who prioritize the restoration of electricity of those who offer money.

“These reports of alleged extortion are truly disturbing and we cannot just disregard or take these things sitting down. We enjoin VECO to use the necessary means to obtain a thorough, comprehensive, and unbiased finding/s, including the use of witnesses’ testimony when available,” Devanadera added.

Quennie Sanchez Bronce, VECO’s reputation enhancement manager, said that they are coordinating with the National Bureau of Investigation to address these reports.

Earlier, VECO had made an announcement through its Facebook page that it does not collect fees for energization or repair of collapsed poles or downed lines.

If there are personnel who offer energization/ repair for a fee, the public is urged to report immediately to 230-8326 or send VECO a message through its Facebook page, and provide some details such as  extortionist's full name, date and time, plate number of the vehicle used, photo or video, if available, among others.

“Visayan Electric is not liable for any damage or loss arising out of or in connection with the unauthorized re-energization arrangement entered into by customers. Visayan Electric does not warrant the quality of the wirings, equipment, or materials used in these unauthorized electricity connections,” the company statement added. – JMD (FREEMAN)