GINGOOG CITY, Misamis Oriental — Some consumers are calling on the management of Misamis Oriental II Rural Electric Service Cooperative (Moresco II) to fully implement the Anti-Obstruction of Power Lines Act, also known as Republic Act 11361.
Consumers have observed that Moresco II has done little to address the problem of plants obstructing power lines.
Years ago, before the Covid-19 pandemic, the company promised to solve the issue in the Gingoog Bay Area within six months, a timeframe requested after Gingoog City Mayor Erick Cañosa called for a one-month resolution.
However, the promise was not fulfilled.
During that meeting, which was presided over by then-Talisayan Mayor Rommel Maslog, now a provincial board member, mayors from Balingasag to Magsaysay and Claveria also demanded that the longstanding problem of brownouts be resolved.
Moresco II Director Leo Pollentes said the cooperative is working to solve the vegetation problem and has already begun clearing the lines. However, he cited a lack of manpower as the reason for delays, stating that not all areas can be cleared at once.
Power outages are often caused by tree branches, trunks, or coconut trees falling on power lines.
Under RA 11361, it is unlawful to “plant or cause to be planted tall growing plants, including plants of whatever kind, variety, or height within the power line corridor.”
Local businessman Engr. Melvin Atienza said the law should be implemented with the cooperation of local government units to ensure the safety of Moresco II crews.
He said he has received reports that some landowners do not want to cut down trees they have planted.
Former Provincial Board Member Leonard Winstanley also warned that no one from Moresco II has the right to cut down his coconut trees on the power line unless he is compensated.
