TWO linemen from the Mactan Electric Company (Meco) sustained second-degree burns after being electrocuted while conducting maintenance work along the National Highway in Barangay Pajo, Lapu-Lapu City on Friday, May 23, 2025.
Maj. Felix Cleopas III, station commander of Lapu-Lapu City Police Office Station 3, said in a message sent to SunStar Cebu that the two linemen received treatment for their burns and were in stable condition.
The victims were identified as Junrel Rabago, 41, a resident of Barangay Bon-bon, Cebu City, and Jomar Cabiso, 26, of Barangay Day-as, Cebu City.
According to initial investigation, the incident occurred around 2:10 p.m. while the Meco maintenance team, led by Felix Inoc, was performing scheduled preventive maintenance at the National Highway in Barangay Pajo.
Inoc said Rabago and Cabiso were on a boom truck preparing to set up a cluster ground using a cluster stick when both individuals came into contact with a live wire.
The linemen reportedly assumed that the line was already de-energized, but a power reversal caused a high-voltage surge through the wire.
The unexpected electrical current led to both men being electrocuted, resulting in second-degree burn injuries.
Despite the shock, both Rabago and Cabiso were not rendered unconscious.
They were immediately given first aid before being transported to a private hospital in Mandaue City for further treatment. / DPC