Answer: SURNECO accommodates requests for tree trimming as long as it is in close proximity (within 4 feet) to powerlines.

Under the Dept. of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) Administrative Order No. 97-34 entitled “Guidelines on Tree Planting Near Electric Power Line Systems”, SURNECO is authorize to trim/prune/cut trees including palms and shrubs which disrupt electric power distribution within Surigao del Norte with prior permit of certification from the local DENR offices concerned.

Q. HOW CAN I REQUEST FOR THE TRIMMING/CUTTING OF TREES?
Answer: Just call SURNECO’s Call Center hotline at 162 or any SURNECO branch office to initiate a request for tree trimming and prepare the necessary information to facilitate your request.

Q. WHAT INFORMATION DO I NEED TO PROVIDE WHEN I MAKE A REQUEST FOR TRIMMING/CUTTING OF TREES?
Answer: Be ready to provide the following information:

Location of the tree – house number, street, nearest corner and if possible the identification of the nearest electrical pole.
Ownership of the tree – if possible, name and telephone no. of the owner if the tree is privately-owned. If it is located in public property, SURNECO will secure the permit from the barangay captain or councilman.
Problems with electricity supply – note if there are sparks coming from the wire or near the overgrown tree; note if you are experiencing problems with your electricity, for example if your lights go on and off intermittently.

Q: CAN A CUSTOMER INITIATE THE CUTTING/TRIMMING OF HIS OWN TREE?
Answer: No, especially if a tree is near a SURNECO line. The job requires the expertise of SURNECO linemen. Doing it yourselves may endanger lives and may cause the power line (or circuit) to “trip”, meaning, the supply of electricity in your area may be temporarily cut-off.