Senate President Win Gatchalian is pushing for reforms to lower electricity costs, saying cheaper power is needed to help Filipino families and businesses and boost the economy.
“If we want to revitalize our economy and give real financial relief to Filipino families and small businesses, we need to bring down the cost of electricity,” Gatchalian said.
He said generation and system loss charges are passed on to consumers and should be properly explained and justified.
Gatchalian made the call as the country’s economy posted only 2.3% growth in the second quarter.
He also warned that the Philippines’ dependence on imported oil leaves Filipinos vulnerable to higher global energy prices, which can push up both fuel and electricity costs.
Gatchalian earlier filed Senate Bill No. 2350, which seeks to stop distribution utilities from charging consumers for system losses and remove the value-added tax on electricity sales.
He also filed Senate Resolution No. 581 seeking an inquiry into the lack of regular fuel cost audits amid rising generation charges.
The senator said stronger government oversight of the power generation sector is needed to make sure consumers are not burdened with unjustified electricity costs.IMT
