ERC to VECO: Probe ‘extortion’ try

VISAYAN Electric Co. (VECO), the distribution unit of Aboitiz Power Corp., was ordered by the Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) to probe alleged extortion by its contractors in exchange for speedy restoration of electricity to select customers.

The ERC told VECO to conduct a thorough investigation of alleged rampant extortion and submit a report within 15 days upon receipt of the directive.

“The number of incidents reported to the Commission which involved either VECO contractors or volunteers or both allegedly extorting money from VECO’S consumers to expedite the restoration of their electricity is alarming and needs the immediate appropriate action by VECO.

“Thus, we have directed VECO to conduct a prompt and thorough investigation of the matter and submit the result to the Commission in writing within 15 days from receipt of our directive,” said ERC Chairperson Agnes Devanadera in a statement Thursday.

VECO’S report should also include measures put in place to prevent such incidents, the regulator said. The ERC would like to know as well what VECO has done against those involved.

The ERC said it received reports that the delay in power restoration in Cebu is not caused by the damaged distribution lines but more by rampant bribery and corruption of either VECO contractors or volunteers who prioritize the restoration of electricity of those who offer money.

“These reports of alleged extortion are truly disturbing and we cannot just disregard or take these things sitting down. We enjoin VECO to use the necessary means to obtain a thorough, comprehensive, and unbiased finding/s, including the use of witnesses’ testimony when available,” Devanadera said.

VECO was also told to expedite restoration of electricity in its franchise area and inform the agency of the progress of its restoration.