The Department of Energy (DOE) on Sunday asked oil companies to mobilize assistance along national highways, major roads, tollways and areas leading to pilgrimage sites as motorists embark on Holy Week retreats and summer vacations.
At the same time, the DOE said it recognizes the overall impact of oil prices in the international market on the motoring public.
Motorists traditionally travel for religious purposes or to spend time with their families in the provinces during the Lenten break.
“Let us assist them in safely navigating their way during these busy travel periods by implementing initiatives that will enhance their overall travel experience and promote road safety campaigns,” Energy Secretary Raphael Lotilla said.
“We can compensate them with efficient services by ensuring that service stations are well-stocked and the staff can handle the increased volume of cars, including offering extended hours, if necessary,” the Energy chief said.
Lotilla said oil companies may engage in community outreach programs, including partnerships with car manufacturing companies for road safety campaigns, offer support to local authorities for traffic management by providing information on road conditions, alternate routes, and emergency contacts amid the heavy traffic volume during the Lenten season.
Meanwhile, Lotilla reminded households to take precautions with their electricity devices when leaving their homes unattended for extended periods of time to ensure safety and energy efficiency.
“Before hitting the long drive this Holy Week, we advise our homeowners to inspect their electrical outlets, cords, and extension cords thoroughly for any damage, and to repair damaged components to prevent the risks of electrical hazards, such as short circuits or electrical fires,” he said.
For its part, Meralco also assured its 7.8 million customers of continuous, reliable, and stable electricity service throughout the Holy Week break.
While Meralco Business Centers will be closed from March 28 to 30, the power distributor’s personnel will be ready 24/7 to attend to customer concerns on electricity service. All Meralco Business Centers will resume operations on Apr. 1.
“We are one with the nation in observing a solemn and safe Holy Week. As a 24-hour service company, we assure our customers that our crews are on standby to attend to concerns and unexpected power interruptions,” Meralco vice president and corporate communications head Joe Zaldarriaga said.
Meralco also reminds the public to practice electrical safety and energy efficiency for a safe and worry-free Holy Week break.
The company said unused appliances should be unplugged especially when going away for several days.
Meralco asked consumers to refrain from using “octopus connections” or plugging in extension cords into a single power outlet as this could overheat and result in fire and other accidents.
It said consumer should also avoid placing and running electrical cords under rugs or carpets as constantly walking on these could damage the insulation of the wires.
All wires and cords should be kept organized, tucked, and stored away; and electrical equipment and devices should be placed far from showers, sinks, and tubs.