The Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) is evaluating a proposed moratorium on disconnecting delinquent electricity consumers in areas declared under a state of calamity due to Severe Tropical Storm (STS) Kristine.
In a statement, the ERC said it is considering measures that will facilitate staggered payment for electricity bills meant to help ease the financial strain on affected consumers.
Jesse Hermogenes Andres, ERC officer-in-charge, urged distribution utilities (DUs) to adopt similar initiatives, allowing for staggered payments from October to December this year. “This move should be considered by DUs in light of the upcoming holiday season,” Andres said.
In addition to payment relief measures, the ERC called on privately owned DUs, the National Grid Corporation of the Philippines and local electric cooperatives, to expedite the restoration of electricity in the storm-hit regions and conduct thorough damage assessments.
As discussions continue, the ERC said a formal order may be necessary to enforce these relief measures for storm-affected consumers. Further details will be provided as the situation develops.
