The resignation of Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) Chairperson Monalisa Dimalanta has sparked serious concerns across the Philippine energy sector, with key groups warning of a destabilizing leadership vacuum at a critical regulatory agency.
Announced by the Office of the President, Dimalanta’s departure leaves the ERC without a full quorum, as two commissioners have also reached the end of their terms. The Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI) cautioned that this vacuum could delay urgent decisions on power tariffs and energy policy, impacting both industry and consumers. PCCI urged the Marcos administration to swiftly appoint competent and independent commissioners.
Energy advocacy group Power for People Coalition (P4P) acknowledged Dimalanta’s reform efforts but criticized the continued rise in electricity rates during her tenure. P4P called on the remaining commissioners to consider courtesy resignations to allow a full reorganization of the commission.
Former senator Sherwin Gatchalian described the resignation as “a significant loss,” citing Dimalanta’s integrity and dedication to consumer welfare. Similarly, the Philippine Rural Electric Cooperatives Association (Philreca) expressed regret, noting the disruption to ongoing reforms but hoping for a capable successor aligned with consumer and cooperative interests.
Stakeholders emphasized the policy significance of ERC’s stability, calling for leadership that ensures regulatory continuity, fair governance, and consumer protection in the country’s energy sector.
