The Department of Energy (DOE) is leading a multi-agency effort to expand access to the government’s electricity subsidy program for low-income households, following President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s directive during his 4th State of the Nation Address (SONA).

The initiative aims to widen enrollment in the Lifeline Rate Program, which offers discounted electricity rates to marginalized consumers. While around 4.5 million households have been identified as eligible as of June 2025, only about 330,000 (7.34%) have registered with their respective distribution utilities (DUs).

“The DOE reaffirms its commitment to promoting inclusive energy access and calls on all eligible beneficiaries to coordinate with their local DUs to avail themselves of the Lifeline Rate Program,” the agency said in a statement released today.

DOE is working closely with the Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC), the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), and other government agencies to close the gap between eligible and enrolled beneficiaries of the Lifeline Rate Program.

As part of this effort, the DOE is reviewing the current discount threshold levels in coordination with the Department of Economy, Planning, and Development (DEPDev) and the ERC. The aim is to ensure that the program remains equitable, financially sustainable, and responsive to the needs of low-income consumers.

The DOE and ERC are also collaborating with distribution utilities (DUs) to simplify the application process. By reducing administrative barriers, they hope to make it easier for qualified households to register and receive the subsidy.

In addition, the DOE is intensifying its information and education drive. Working alongside the ERC, DSWD, Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA), DUs, and local government units (LGUs), the agency is ramping up nationwide IEC campaigns.

These campaigns are designed to raise awareness about the benefits of the program and encourage more eligible households to sign up.

The Lifeline Rate Program was established under Section 73 of Republic Act No. 9136 or the Electric Power Industry Reform Act (EPIRA), with subsequent extensions through RA No. 10150 and RA No. 11552, the latter extending the program’s implementation for 50 more years starting in 2021.

Discount levels vary by utility. For instance, in the MERALCO franchise area, households consuming 0–20 kilowatt hours (kWh) per month pay as little as PHP 20.00, thanks to a 100% discount on key charges, excluding a fixed PHP 5.00 metering fee.

The DOE expects the number of eligible beneficiaries to rise as coverage expands to include households listed under the DSWD’s Listahanan database, which identifies poor and vulnerable sectors beyond current 4Ps beneficiaries.

What more can be done to ensure power subsidies reach those who need them most? Join the conversation.

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