The Department of Energy (DOE) has launched “Brigada Kontra Jumper,” a nationwide initiative aimed at combating electricity theft and reducing system losses that are ultimately passed on to consumers.
According to a report by Jecelle Ricafort, the program targets illegal electrical connections, electricity “jumpers,” and tampering with electric meters, which the DOE said contribute to losses in the power distribution system.
Energy Secretary Sharon Garin emphasized that electricity theft is not a victimless act, as illegal connections and other forms of power pilferage can result in financial losses across the distribution system.
The DOE stressed that consumers who properly pay their electricity bills should not be made to shoulder the costs resulting from stolen power.
As part of the initiative, the public is being encouraged to report suspected illegal electrical connections, jumpers, and meter tampering through the eGovPH platform.
Reports should include the location, date and time when the suspected illegal activity was observed, along with a brief description and other information that could assist authorities in verifying and addressing the reported violation.
The Brigada Kontra Jumper forms part of the DOE’s broader System Loss Reduction Action Plan, which includes strengthened anti-pilferage enforcement, meter management and audits, and consumer education.
The plan also covers improvements in billing and collection systems, the cleanup of consumer databases, and efforts to strengthen distribution utilities and electric cooperatives.
The initiative will further enhance coordination among the DOE, Department of the Interior and Local Government, Philippine National Police, National Electrification Administration, distribution utilities, electric cooperatives, and other stakeholders.
Through the campaign, the government aims to reduce electricity theft, improve the efficiency of the power distribution system, and help ensure that legitimate consumers are not burdened by losses caused by illegal electricity connections and related activities.
