Power lines (INQUIRER FILE PHOTO)
MANILA, Philippines — The Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) on Wednesday ordered local government units to enact ordinances that prevent obstructions of power lines.
DILG Secretary Eduardo Año said this measure is meant to ensure continuous transmission and distribution of electricity, especially during the hot, dry season, in support of the implementation of Republic Act 11361 or the Anti-Obstruction of Power Lines Act (AOPLA).
“The continuous supply of electricity is essential for us to do our daily activities, especially at this time when our economy is gradually recovering from the effects of the pandemic,” he said in a statement.
“Local governments should, therefore, see to it that the integrity and safety of power plants are safeguarded by regulating hazardous activities and improvements in areas surrounding the PLCs,” he added.
Año also said that DILG’s Memorandum Circular 2022-036 already states that LGU building officials must require those who intend to construct or do maintenance activities near PLCs or power line corridors to obtain a certification from the power line operator (PLO) or their authorized contractor.
Without such certification, the DILG chief said the concerned LGU official should not issue a business permit to the building owner.
PLOs, however, may conduct clearing operations against obstructions near PLCs that do not have a permit from LGUs, so long as due notice is given to the local government – at least three days before the conduct of the clearing activities, said Año.
Año also directed LGUs to inform and educate their respective constituents, including property owners and homeowners’ associations, about RA 11361 and other regulations and policies relative to preventing obstructions and dangerous activities near power plants.
“To ensure the support, cooperation, and compliance of surrounding communities, they should be made aware of what activities are not allowed near the generation and power plants that might affect the steady supply of electricity and could pose danger to nearby areas,” he said.
Año then warned LGUs to abide by the law and not partake in unlawful acts enumerated under Section 6 of the AOPLA.
“Negligent LGU officials who will be found guilty of committing such acts or issuing building permits in violation of AOPLA will be meted penalties under the said law and the Local Government Code,” he said.
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