Senator Risa Hontiveros has filed a resolution seeking an inquiry into the Energy Regulatory Commission’s consumer protection policies following complaints about erroneous electricity billings.
She said some of the agency’s existing policies appear to put the burden on consumers instead of protecting them.
“ERC has a mandate to protect electric consumers, but some of its current policies may be placing the burden on the very people it is supposed to protect,” according to her.
Hontiveros also questioned why consumers are required to settle disputed bills before they can contest them. “Bakit nasa konsyumer ang responsibilidad na iwasto ang maling paniningil sa atin?”
The senator said the issue should be reviewed, especially as Filipinos continue to face higher electricity rates.IMT
