DILG orders LGUs to enact ordinances against power line obstructions

The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) on Wednesday said it has ordered local government units (LGUs) to have ordinances preventing the obstructions of power lines.

In a statement, the DILG said its Memorandum Circular 2022-036 provided that LGUs' building officials must require those intending to conduct construction or maintenance activities near power line corridors (PLCs) to obtain a certification.

This certification from the power line operator (PLO) or their authorized contractor should state that the construction or maintenance activity will not affect the PLC.

DILG Secretary Eduardo Año said LGUs should regulate activities that may obstruct power lines to ensure uninterrupted electricity supply considering the increase in demand for electricity.

“The continuous supply of electricity is essential for us to do our daily activities especially at this time when our economy is gradually recovering from the effects of the pandemic,” Año said.

“Local governments should, therefore, see to it that the integrity and safety of power plants are safeguarded by regulating hazardous activities and improvements in areas surrounding the PLCs,” he added.

Without the certification,  Año said the LGU building official will not issue a business permit to the building owner.

PLOs may conduct clearing operations against obstructions near PLCs that do not have a permit from LGUs, provided that due notice is given to the concerned city/municipality at least three days before the conduct of the clearing activities, according to Año.

Clearing operations include trimming, pruning, cutting, or clearing tall growing plants, as well as dismantling or demolition of hazardous improvements, he added.

The memorandum is in support of the implementation of Republic Act 11361 or the Anti-Obstruction of Power Lines Act (AOPLA), according to the DILG. —Joviland Rita/KG, GMA News