by Michael Vincent D. Cajulao
ZAMBOANGA
CITY, May 29 (PIA) – The National Grid Corporation of the
Philippines (NGCP) is appealing to the public to help protect transmission
lines for an efficient power transmission to the consumers.
In a media briefing held recently
here, NGCP Consultant Mr. Guillermo Redoblado said transmission lines should be
free from obstructions and most important, protected from thieves.
“As much as possible, our lines should
be free from contacts with other objects. These really affect the smooth
transmission of our power to the cooperatives and all the more to our consumers.
But most important is we have to protect our lines and towers from thieves. If
our towers are destroyed due to pilfering, it will greatly affect the stability
of our towers and will be susceptible to damage especially during calamities”,
Redoblado said.
NGCP Spokesperson Atty. Cynthia
Alabanza added that anything that touches the transmission lines causes
tripping, thus interrupting the flow of power.
“Even a branch of tree touching our
lines can really affect the quality of power transmitted to the public. This
results in power loss which unfortunately we consumers pay”, she said.
Atty. Alabanza has also warned that
pilfering is punishable by law as mandated by Republic Act 7832.
“We have RA 7832 which imposes punishment
to pilferers. This does not only apply to thieves but also to those who buy parts
of our towers like junk shop owners among others”, Alabanza explained.
Under the law, violators will face
up to 20 years in prison and a fine ranging from P50,000.00 to P100,000.00.
NGCP-Mindanao Communications Officer
Milfrance Capulong said pilferage is their biggest problem in the region, especially
here in Zamboanga City.
“Zamboanga City actually has the
highest cases of pilferage in Mindanao, particularly the Sangali-Recodo line. Unfortunately,
we really can’t file cases against most of the culprits as they are minors.
That is why we have augmented security in that area”, Capulong said.
She asked the media to help educate
the public to curb pilferage in the city.
As reminders, NGCP officials urged
the public to avoid kite-flying near transmission lines, and also climbing
transmission towers as this may cause electrocution. The public should not also
build fire and plant trees near or under transmission structures, avoid anything
to come in contact with the lines, and report any incident of leaning posts or
towers, or sagging lines. As much as possible, people should stay away from
power lines and towers to avoid accidents and also ensure uninterrupted power
transmission, NGCP officials said. (MVC/PIA9-ZBST)