CALOOCAN CITY, Philippines — A man was caught on CCTV allegedly stealing a water meter from a residential property in Barangay 15, Caloocan City, in the early hours of Tuesday, August 25.
According to a report by GMA News aired on Unang Balita on August 26, the suspect stopped near a gate along J. Rodríguez Avenue at around 3 a.m. He was seen examining several water meters before allegedly removing one and fleeing the area on a bicycle.
The homeowner discovered that the water meter was missing and immediately reported the incident to barangay authorities.
Barangay officials identified the alleged suspect through the CCTV footage as a man known by the alias “Totong.” Barangay 15 Executive Officer Jacqueline Celestino said they had received information from neighboring barangays that the same man had allegedly been involved in similar theft incidents in other areas.
Authorities, however, have not announced an arrest. As of the latest report, barangay officials were still searching for the suspect, who was described as possibly being from outside the area and allegedly having a previous case.
Why are water meters being targeted?
Celestino said the suspect allegedly steals water meters for their metal components, particularly copper, which can be sold for money.
The incident is not isolated. In July, ABS-CBN News reported the arrest of a suspected “tirador” allegedly targeting water meters in Pasig.
The problem has also been reported in other parts of the country. The Philippine News Agency reported in July that the Baguio Water District recorded 25 water-meter theft incidents from February through July 2026, including eight cases in July alone. The agency warned that stolen meters can disrupt water service and require replacement before service can be restored.
Water meter theft is punishable under Philippine law
Water meter theft is more than simply the loss of household equipment. Republic Act No. 8041, or the National Water Crisis Act, specifically prohibits the stealing or pilfering of water meters, pipes and related water facilities. The law also prohibits knowingly possessing stolen or tampered water meters.
For residents whose Maynilad water meters are stolen, Maynilad advises customers to report the incident through its hotline 1626 within 24 hours, secure a police or barangay report, and submit the required documentation. Maynilad states that the replacement of a stolen meter is free, although subsequent thefts may be charged to the registered customer.
For now, residents in the affected Caloocan area are being urged to remain vigilant and report suspicious activity to barangay officials or police authorities.
The CCTV footage could prove crucial in identifying and locating the suspect as authorities continue their search.
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