Representative Chel Diokno and members of the Akbayan Reform bloc have formalised a call for a congressional investigation into the complex and heavy electricity charges currently passed on to Filipino consumers.
House Resolution No. 995, filed by Diokno alongside Akbayan Representatives Perci Cendaña and Dadah Ismula, and Dinagat Islands Representative Kaka Bag-ao, targets the various pass-through fees collected by the Manila Electric Company (Meralco) and other power distributors.
The resolution highlights a long list of items appearing on monthly statements, including generation, transmission, and system loss charges, as well as various subsidies and taxes authorized under the Electric Power Industry Reform Act (EPIRA) and the Renewable Energy Act.
“At a time when Filipino families are already struggling with rising prices of basic goods, they should not be burdened further by unclear and burdensome charges in their electricity bills,” Diokno said.
The lawmaker emphasized that the inquiry is vital to ensure that utility billing remains equitable.
“We need to determine whether these charges are fair, transparent, and truly in the best interest of consumers,” he added.
While acknowledging the necessity of social subsidies for marginalized sectors, Diokno expressed concern that ordinary households are bearing an unsustainable financial weight due to persistent inflation.
The proposed investigation will specifically review the EPIRA law to identify potential amendments regarding pricing structures and pass-through costs. Additionally, lawmakers intend to scrutinize the Energy Regulatory Commission’s (ERC) resolutions and the implementation of the Lifeline Rate Subsidy Program to assess their actual impact on consumer wallets.