The Manila Electric Company (Meralco) alerted the public on Thursday regarding a likely increase in May electricity bills, citing the peso’s depreciation against the US dollar and rising costs from both the spot market and power suppliers.
Beyond external economic factors, Meralco noted that residential demand typically surges during the summer months as temperatures climb.
Meralco Spokesman Joe Zaldarriaga explained that while various factors are at play, the upward pressure on rates is significant.
”It can go either way, but of course, nandun ang pressure for prices to jump because mas mabigat yung factor ng pagbaba ng pera natin at saka ng Middle East situation,” Zaldarriaga said.
There are, however, some mitigating factors that could temper the increase. These include a shortened refund period—offering a reduction of ₱0.23/kWh—and the removal of value-added tax on Malampaya natural gas, which could shave off another ₱0.20/kWh.
Despite these potential deductions, the utility firm warned that higher household consumption due to the heat might still result in higher overall bills for most customers.
In compliance with the Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) mandate, Meralco confirmed it will implement the moratorium on disconnections and offer staggered payment schemes for those consuming 200 kWh or less from May to July 2026.
Addressing concerns that the lack of disconnections might discourage payments, Zaldarriaga suggested that most customers prefer to settle bills late rather than face a massive accumulated balance after the July deadline.
Zaldarriaga also addressed social media discussions regarding “other charges” on the bill, clarifying that these public policy charges are mandated by law and will remain until the underlying legislation is amended.
He emphasized that the generation charge, rather than these statutory fees, is the primary driver of the rising costs.