The Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) has rolled out three new policies to boost transparency, fairness, and savings for Filipino electricity consumers.
Announced Tuesday, the changes cover billing clarity, meter standards, and extra fee controls.
First: All distribution utilities must use a uniform bill format separating government pass-through charges—including allowable system loss—from items subject to VAT. This removes VAT on eligible system loss charges, making bills easier to read and lowering costs.
“Every peso matters,” said ERC Chair Atty. Francis Saturnino Juan. “Consumers see exactly what they pay for—fairer, clearer, no wrong charges.”
Second: Updated meter rules require ERC approval for all revenue meters, with 10-year certificates. Existing meters stay valid—no forced replacement. Stronger standards mean more accurate readings and fewer billing errors.
Third: Uniform “other charges” rules ban double-billing. Fees apply only to specific services like connection or reconnection, covering only direct labor, fuel, and materials—no overhead or profit. Late payment fees are capped at 2% of the bill or unpaid portion, whichever is lower, charged once only, and shown separately.
Utilities have 90 days to update systems, post approved fee schedules publicly, and scrap unapproved charges.
“Never pay twice for costs already in your rate,” Juan said. “Fair, clear, accountable service for all.”
