MANILA, Philippines — Energy consumer organization ILAW expresses gratitude to President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. for highlighting the concerns of energy consumers and the issue of rising electricity costs during his third State of the Nation Address (SONA).
“We are pleased to hear about the proactive and enlightened steps that the administration of PBBM is taking to address the energy concerns in our country. We at ILAW eagerly look forward to amendments in EPIRA that will further benefit all Filipino consumers. May we see the reality of just, affordable, and accessible energy in our country very soon,” said ILAW National Convenor Agnes “Beng” Garcia.
During his SONA, Marcos outlined the government’s measures to alleviate the burden of Filipino consumers regarding their high electricity bills, such as the Lifeline Rate program, a subsidized rate given to qualified low-income electricity customers, temporary suspension in the collection of the Feed-in-Tariff Allowance (FIT-All) Tariff, and the Anti-Bill Shock lending program designed to assist power distribution utilities to cushion the impact of high electricity bills.
Most notably, the President called upon Congress to review the Electric Power Industry Reform Act (EPIRA) to assess its suitability for the nation’s current circumstances and consider potential amendments. ILAW supports this initiative and anticipates amendments that will enhance the accessibility and affordability of electricity for consumers.
“While Marcos’ pronouncements are a significant step towards empowering communities struggling with electricity, there is a long way to go,” remarked Garcia. “Until ILAW realizes its vision of building a future where every Filipino has access to stable and affordable electricity, ILAW will continue to amplify consumers’ voices and promote recommendations to achieve its goal.”
In line with the President’s call to address rising electricity costs for consumers, ILAW reaffirms its steadfast commitment to advocating for energy consumers and promoting affordable and accessible electricity for all through a comprehensive, multifaceted approach, as stated in its recently launched study, “Focus Group Discussion: Economic Impact of Blackouts on Businesses in Puerto Princesa City, Baguio City, and Tagum City.”
In the study, ILAW recommended short-term, medium-term, and long-term plans to resolve and prevent further power outages. “Looking ahead, we hope to see a comprehensive energy roadmap encompassing his term; such a roadmap will provide clarity on the consumers’ role in ensuring a just, affordable, and accessible energy system for all Filipinos,” said ILAW Youth Convenor Francine Pradez.
Other recommendations include an energy summit to facilitate high-level discussions among industry experts, policymakers, and community leaders and upgraded power infrastructure and grid capability.
With the completion of energy projects and new investments mentioned by the President during his SONA, ILAW is eager to see the energy demands of communities being met, paving the way for businesses and communities to thrive.
