Built-in power houses sought by Alderman

February 11, 2017 Opinion Sideglance

In a bid to further ensure the safety of the public from hanging electrical transformers attached to electrical posts, especially during typhoons or other calamities and disasters, City Councilor Benny Bomogao filed a proposed Ordinance that would make it mandatory for all establishments to have their own built-in-powerhouse within their buildings, structures or premises and recommends sanctions for its violation.

Councilor Bomogao explained in his proposal that Section 458 of Republic Act 7160 otherwise known as the Local Government Code of 1991 provides that the city shall regulate activities in the use of land, buildings and structures within the city in order to promote public safety and the general welfare. He added that these electrical transformers which hang and are attached to electrical posts can be housed and located more appropriately within the premises of sole users which is more environmentally friendly and safe for the public.

Under the said proposed legislative measure it shall be mandatory for all establishments within the city, those considered as sole users of power transformers to have it secured in a power house located within their own buildings, structures or premises, and that all existing power transformers for sole users that are currently attached to electrical posts along roads/alleys shall be relocated as provided in the said proposed ordinance.

The said proposed measure also prohibits an electric company engaged in the sale, distribution or generation of electricity in providing an electric service connection to any establishment covered by the proposed regulation. Likewise, the City Building and Architects Office (CBAO) shall see to it that all establishments covered by the proposed ordinance shall have secured a facility for its electrical plans as a condition for the issuance of a building permit, and the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) shall not issue a clearance for non-compliant establishments.

Upon its approval and within one year from the effectivity of the said regulation all concerned establishments shall relocate their power transformers and after the said one year period the electric power distribution company shall cut of electric service to those non complying establishments upon 60 day notice.

The penalties imposed on those found to be in violation of the said proposed regulation shall pay a fine of five thousand pesos, non-renewal and/or revocation of business permit and closure of establishment/s until compliance, and if it is committed by a corporation or partnership, the penalty shall be imposed on the President, manager and Chief Operating Officer.

The said proposed ordinance is expected to be deliberated upon by the city council on first reading and referral to committee during its regular session Monday next week.