MANILA, Philippines–A councilor wants all utility companies operating in Quezon City to seek clearance from local officials before they repair or install cable wires in any of the 142 barangays (villages) in the area.
In her proposed ordinance, Councilor Dorothy Delarmente of the first district expressed concern over cable thieves posing as employees of legitimate electrical, phone and cable companies.
“There have been reported incidents in which criminal elements posing as cable technicians steal electrical wires even during broad daylight without [arousing] the slightest suspicion from residents,” she said.
In the draft measure, Delarmente stressed the danger of high voltage wires being cut and left exposed by cable thieves.
Should the proposed ordinance be approved, all utility firms should coordinate with and secure a clearance from barangay officials in the area where they plan to repair or install cable wires.
Penalties range from a P1,000 fine for the first offense, P3,000 for the second offense, P5,000 for the third offense plus the cancellation of the firm’s business permit or up to 60 days in jail or both based on the court’s discretion.