By el Amigo
MANILA, Philippines — Manila Electric Co. (Meralco) has committed to comply with the Energy Regulatory Commission’s (ERC) directive ordering the country’s largest power distributor to refund P9.5 billion in excess charges to its consumers.
In a statement issued on Sunday, Aug. 2, Meralco said it recognizes the importance of providing immediate financial relief to electricity consumers and will work closely with regulators to ensure the refund is implemented efficiently and transparently.
“Meralco supports initiatives of the government to provide relief to consumers and ensure that they benefit from any approved refund as quickly and transparently as possible,” the company said.
The utility assured the public that it will abide by the ERC’s order and undertake the necessary measures to facilitate the refund in accordance with existing rules and regulations.
While Meralco has yet to release details on the refund schedule and implementation, the company said it remains committed to complying with all regulatory requirements and keeping consumers informed of developments.
The ERC earlier directed Meralco to refund P9.5 billion representing excess charges collected from consumers. The order forms part of the regulator’s mandate to ensure that electricity rates remain fair, reasonable and consistent with existing laws governing the power industry.
Consumer groups have welcomed the refund order, saying it would provide much-needed relief to millions of households and businesses grappling with rising living costs and higher electricity expenses.
Energy analysts likewise noted that the refund demonstrates the ERC’s role in protecting consumer welfare by ensuring that power distributors charge only approved and justified rates.
Meralco, which serves Metro Manila and nearby provinces, supplies electricity to millions of residential, commercial and industrial customers, making the refund one of the largest consumer reimbursements ordered in the Philippine power sector in recent years.
The company said it will release additional information once the ERC finalizes the mechanics and timetable for the implementation of the refund.
elamigo/xf
