Dear Attorney Reyes,
Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year, Attorney!
I hope this message finds you well. I’m reaching out to share my concerns about our new neighbor who, I suspect, may be causing the recent electrical problems in our neighborhood.
The issue started when he moved in from Cebu City last year and opened a sari-sari store and videoke bar in front of their house. Since then, we’ve been dealing with frequent power fluctuations on our street.
The problem has worsened recently, especially now that the neighborhood is decorated with Christmas lights. These fluctuations have already damaged some of our appliances and caused significant inconvenience to many of us.
What concerns me most is that, before these problems began, I saw our neighbor climbing the electric pole near his house one night. On another occasion, I believe I saw him tampering with his electric meter.
Attorney, what does the law say about this? I’m worried these kind of activities might be contributing to the electrical issues we’re experiencing. New Year man pud. -Mrs. C
Dear Mrs. C
Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to you as well!
If your observations are correct, your neighbor may be engaged in electricity pilferage, which is strictly prohibited and punishable under the law.
Electricity pilferage refers to illegal acts such as tampering with electrical meters, using jumpers, or any method to steal electricity or reduce the recorded consumption. It also includes stealing wires, transformers, or other equipment from electric utilities like NGCP or Soleco.
Under the Anti-Electricity and Electric Transmission Lines/Materials Pilferage Act of 1994 or R.A. 7832. Persons who are convicted of “Illegal Use of Electricity” may face imprisonment ranging from six (6) years and one (1) day as minimum, to twelve (12) years as maximum, or a fine of P10,000 to P20,000, or both, depending on the court’s discretion. Meanwhile, persons who are convicted of “Theft of Electric Power Transmission Lines and Materials” may face longer imprisonment ranging from twelve (12) years and one day as minimum, to twenty (20) years as maximum, or a bigger fine of P50,000 to P100,000, or both, at the discretion of the court.
This law aims to prevent electricity theft, protect electric utilities from revenue losses, and ensure fair electricity distribution for all electric consumers.
If you or your family have knowledge of electricity pilferage in your area, you can report it directly to your local electric utility cooperative or the nearest police station. Immediate action can help prevent further inconvenience to you and your neighborhood.
Wishing you and your neighbors a bright holiday season!
Sincerely,
Atty. Wowie Reyes
