Local authorities in Mangaldan, Pangasinan ordered the removal of an aging telecommunications pole that was at risk of collapsing along a busy road, replacing it with a concrete post to prevent possible accidents, officials said.

The old pole, located along Rizal Avenue, was filmed by residents and shared online after it appeared to be leaning dangerously due to age. The local government coordinated with the Central Pangasinan Electric Cooperative (CENPELCO) after assessing the potential risk to motorists and pedestrians.

Instead of repairing the structure, CENPELCO removed the old pole and installed a new concrete one.

CENPELCO General Manager Engr. Rodrigo Corpuz said the action was allowed under an existing agreement with telecommunications companies.

“Telco pole po ‘yun, pero since kinalas natin, ikinabit na lang din natin ‘yung secondary line natin doon sa taas dahil bagong poste naman ang inilagay natin para ma-utilized ‘yung poste, sayang naman,” Corpuz said.

Under a memorandum of agreement between CENPELCO and telecom firms, the electric cooperative is authorized to immediately repair or remove hazardous poles even without prior notice to the owning company.

While the old pole has been replaced, several communication cables that were previously attached to it were left scattered on the roadside, raising concerns among road users.

“Dapat ayusin nila kasi delikado ’yan, mahirap,”Arland Rabino, a motorist, said.

The Mangaldan local government said it has already contacted the telecommunications company responsible for the cables to ensure proper cleanup and restoration.

“Kinausap na natin mga communication line at anytime maaayos na rin nila ’yan,” Mangaldan Public Order and Safety Office chief Gerry Ydia said.

CENPELCO said it is continuing to assess all utility poles in Mangaldan and acknowledged that some structures are still made of wood. The cooperative said it plans to replace these poles to ensure safer and more reliable service for consumers.

The telecommunications company involved is yet to release a statement.