3 water meter thieves arrested in Cebu

CEBU CITY – Theft charges have been filed against three individuals for stealing water meters in Barangay San Vicente, Liloan, Cebu. Police identified the suspects as Raymond Gomez, Roel Monesteryo, and Gerald Damiles. They were apprehended on April 11 in Purok Proper 1 after they were caught in the act of taking two water meters owned by Metro Cebu Water District (MCWD). Damiles is facing an additional complaint for illegal possession of firearms after authorities allegedly recovered a .22 caliber revolver from his possession during the arrest. MCWD served as the complainant in the case as owner of the stolen water meters. The water district reiterated its firm stance against water meter theft, vowing to pursue legal action against those involved. The latest arrest comes amid a surge in water meter theft incidents across Metro Cebu, particularly in Liloan and Consolacion. Data from MCWD showed that from March 1 to 24 alone, 141 incidents were recorded, with Liloan accounting for the highest number at 84 cases, followed by Consolacion with 39. The increasing cases have prompted MCWD to call on the Philippine National Police (PNP) to strengthen police visibility and intensify efforts against individuals engaged in the theft and illegal trade of water meters. MCWD and officials of the Cebu Police Provincial Office (CPPO) met on April 14 to discuss coordinated efforts to combat water meter theft. To aid enforcement, MCWD continues to offer rewards to informants—P10,000 for information leading to the arrest of water meter thieves and P25,000 for those who can help identify buyers of stolen meters. The agency warned that individuals who purchase stolen meters may also face charges under the Anti-Fencing Law of 1979. MCWD emphasized that water meter theft not only disrupts water service but also poses health risks, as exposed pipelines may lead to contamination. It urged the public to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities to authorities or through its official communication channels. Affected customers were advised to secure a police report detailing their account information and meter details before proceeding to MCWD offices for meter replacement.