The Manila Electric Company (Meralco) announced plans to move its power lines underground in the next five years to address issues with dangling and cluttered wires while improving storm resilience. This was revealed by Meralco Chief Operating Officer Ronnie Aperocho during a Senate hearing on the company’s bid for a new 25-year franchise.
“In our budget for the next five years, we have included significant capital expenditure for relocating lines from overhead to underground,” Aperocho said. “This aims not only to resolve the issue of spaghetti wires but also to enhance storm hardening and resiliency.”
The move also comes as a response to the surge in internet connectivity during the pandemic, which saw telecommunications companies attaching numerous wires to Meralco’s posts. The added load has raised safety concerns and increased the risk of overloaded posts falling.
Meralco emphasized that the project would help address these risks while improving the overall appearance of public spaces. The Metro Manila Council has already approved a resolution urging local governments to regulate dangling wires and enforce proper cable installation.
Additionally, proposed legislation in the House of Representatives seeks to mandate utility providers to organize aerial wires, remove non-operational cables, and ensure safe clearances for overhead installations.
