BY LENIE LECTURA – APRIL 30, 2021
from Business Mirror
The Manila Electric Co. (Meralco) is extending the suspension of disconnection activities in its franchise area until May 14 as government extended the modified enhanced community quarantine (MECQ) in National Capital Region, Bulacan, Cavite, Laguna and Rizal.
“Given the current situation and the extended MECQ, we continue to take into consideration the challenges our customers are facing amid these difficult times. Thus, we will continue to put on hold all disconnection activities until May 14, 2021,” said Meralco First Vice President and Chief Commercial Officer Ferdinand Geluz.
For those who have the ability to pay, the Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) strongly encouraged customers to settle their bills within the original due date “to help manage the cash flow in the energy supply chain and ensure the continuous supply of electricity.”
Geluz said Meralco will continue to be “very considerate” during this period and vowed to assist its customers in need of help with their concerns. “We hope this additional extension will help ease the burden of our customers, while providing the necessary relief and additional time for them to settle their bills.”
Meralco reiterated that it will continue vital operations, such as meter reading, following the order of the ERC, and will also continue to work round the clock to serve its customers.
“Meralco business operations, including meter reading and bill delivery activities, will continue throughout the MECQ. Our continued operations will ensure that actual consumption for the month will be billed accordingly. But rest assured there will be strict implementation of health protocols in order to safeguard the health and safety of both customers and our personnel,” Geluz said.
Meralco business centers will remain open to accept payments, applications and customer assistance.
“Meralco crews will also continue to be on standby 24/7 to respond to any emergencies and reports,” Geluz added.