The city government of Manila has begun enforcing a stricter policy to eliminate unsightly and hazardous “spaghetti wires” from the city’s electric posts.

Manila Mayor Fracisco "Isko" Domagoso said the telecommunications companies and other service providers are no longer allowed to install new cables on Meralco poles without proper clearance.

Under the new policy, only Meralco has the authority to approve or deny such installations.

The mayor confirmed the development, saying he had already instructed City Engineer Armand Andres and City Electrician Engr. Randy Sadac to enforce the new directive.

“These telcos understand very well kung ano lang dapat ang nakasampay d'yan (Telcos understand very well what should and should not be on those poles),” the mayor said.

“If it is feasible, I don’t think Meralco will deny the request. But if it is not, we will respect and follow their decision.”

The policy aims to improve public safety and urban aesthetics by addressing the long-standing issue of tangled, unmanaged overhead wires. It is also expected to streamline coordination between the city government, Meralco, and private utilities.

“Kapag nagtulong-tulong talaga ang private sector at gobyerno (When the government and the private sector truly work hand in hand), inch by inch, meter by meter -- before we know it, we've achieved several miles of making the City of Manila pleasant,” he added, thanking Meralco for its cooperation.“

To improve public safety, Domagoso is continuing the city's street lighting initiative in dimly lit and high-risk areas.

Magsaysay Boulevard is among the latest roads to receive new lighting installations.

He also recently visited Ospital ng Maynila to oversee the installation of additional lighting inside and outside the hospital, as well as the repair of its elevator.