DOE Secretary Alfonso G. Cusi together with DOE Officials met with Manila Electric Company (MERALCO) President Oscar S. Reyes and his team to discuss how to help the marginalized people in Metro Manila and nearby provinces to access and enjoy the power company’s electricity services at reasonable price.

(Taguig City). Department of Energy Secretary Alfonso G. Cusi, in a meeting this morning with MERALCO President Oscar S. Reyes, emphasized, "Let us service the people who need our help most, such as those in Smokey Mountain, Payatas and Muntinlupa."

Sec. Cusi said "These are the people President Rodrigo Duterte promised to serve,” as he chose to have a solidarity dinner with the poor community at the Del Pan Sports Complex in Tondo upon being sworn to office.

Moreover, Sec. Cusi also discussed with Meralco officials its pre-paid electricity service which targets the poorest of the poor to have access to electricity. Sec. Cusi also recommended to Meralco to check on the “relocation sites because these are potential fire hazards."

"Let us not wait for the Local Government Units to resolve problems. Let us help especially the marginalized. I want the general public to feel that the government is doing something to better their lives by providing adequate electricity with lower rates so they will be able to afford other necessities such as more food on the table."

Meanwhile, Meralco President Oscar S. Reyes said they intend to give primary concern to those who have asked the Department of Energy for assistance.

"I will let my team coordinate with you (Meralco) and let's have weekly meetings. Let us coordinate also for disaster preparedness, initiate a joint task force especially now being the rainy season," said Sec. Cusi.

Sec. Cusi expressed gratitude to MERALCO President Reyes for their cooperation and concluded with a message, "Para sa maliliit na tao ang meeting na ito."

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