MANILA, Philippines -- Manila Electric Co., the country's biggest power distributor, assured its customers of adequate power supply and 24-hour assistance, during the New Year's eve and day celebration.

In a statement, Meralco external communication manager Joe Zaldarriaga said that the distribution utility's emergency crews have been placed on alert, most especially on New Year's Eve and throughout the holidays, to ensure prompt response to any contingency.

Zaldarriaga disclosed that this early, Meralco has already put in place contingency measures, in case their facilities get affected by pyrotechnics and firecracker explosions.

He also advised all Meralco customers to observe utmost safety.

"We advise the general public not to play with firecrackers and pyrotechnics near our facilities most especially electric lines and transformers because these may cause power interruptions and even start fires," Zaldarriaga said.

"To ensure safety, people should remember that firecrackers and pyrotechnics near electric facilities is a dangerous mix," he further warned.

Zaldarriaga noted that even with Meralco?s regular upgrade and maintenance work on facilities, overhead lines would still be vulnerable to firecracker explosions and pyrotechnics.

In case of emergencies, he reminded Meralco customers to call Meralco's 24-hour call center at 16211.

"Our call center is ready to respond to customers' needs at any given time. Its service is available 24/7. For safety tips and other Meralco related services please visit our website at www.meralco.com.ph," Zaldarriaga advised.