Meralco to roll 300 gensets in preparation for Barangay, SK elections
Manila Electric Company (Meralco) is set to roll out 300 generator sets (gensets) to prevent potential blackouts that could disrupt the upcoming Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections (BSKE) scheduled for the end of this month.
In addition, the power giant has 800 flood lights ready for deployment to counter any power service interruptions, ensuring that polling places remain illuminated.
Meralco has meticulously inspected the electrical systems of approximately 3,000 polling and canvassing centers. This is part of a comprehensive preparation strategy to establish ’emergency response measures’ should there be temporary power losses or technical issues within its power network.
The company has expressed confidence in its preparedness for the imminent elections, with crews on standby to address any electricity service issues during the October 30 polls.
Joe Zaldarriaga, Meralco’s Vice President for Corporate Communications, stated that the utility company is on 24/7 alert to tackle any distribution-related issues until the electoral process concludes.
“Our crews will be stationed at strategic points throughout our franchise area, ready to resolve any potential electricity service issues,” Zaldarriaga added.
The inspections covered public schools and barangay halls in Metro Manila and adjacent provinces, including Rizal, Cavite, Laguna, Bulacan, and selected areas in Batangas and Quezon.
Maintenance activities have been ongoing to ensure the stability and reliability of electricity service on election day, including tree trimming and hazard removal to facilitate the efficient operation of power facilities.
Meralco also advised polling place personnel to avoid using unnecessary appliances to prevent “octopus wiring” and overloading.
The public is urged to cooperate by avoiding the use of highly flammable items near overhead lines, such as balloons and firecrackers, as these could cause line tripping and subsequent blackouts.