The Ilocos Norte Electric Cooperative (INEC) has suspended the implementation of disconnection service for unpaid electricity bills effective Wednesday. This was contained in the Oct. 23, 2024 memorandum issued by INEC acting general manager Cipriano Martinez III, addressed to all area managers, supervisors, meter readers, and disconnectors. "Because of (Severe Tropical Storm) typhoon Kristine and in consideration of the safety of our member-consumer-owners, the operation for disconnection is hereby suspended starting today until further notice,' Martinez said in a statement. Since the latter part of 2023, the lone power distribution utility in the province has been aggressive in cutting off power connections of delinquent consumers. The electric cooperative has around PHP28 million unpaid bills every month, but the collection efficiency significantly improved this year due to the strict implementation of disconnection policy. However, due to a series of typhoons affecting residents, INEC has become more considerate, this time extending the 'no disconnection policy' until the weather improves or the affected typhoon victims have recovered. As of Wednesday, several villages in the cities of Laoag and Batac and the municipalities of Badoc, Dumalneg, Pagudpud, Adams, San Nicolas, Vintar have experienced power interruptions due to ongoing repair and tripped off power lines because of the bad weather. The INEC task force for Kristine have been working to resolve reports of power interruptions. Source: Philippines News Agency
Thursday, October 24, 2024