The Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) is calling on distribution utilities (DUs) to allow staggered payment of October to December electricity bills for consumers affected by Severe Tropical Storm Kristine.
In a report by Philippine Star, the ERC also directed DUs to implement a temporary halt on service disconnections for customers in declared calamity areas.
Additionally, the Commission encouraged the National Grid Corporation of the Philippines, private DUs, and electric cooperatives (ECs) in storm-impacted regions to conduct damage assessments and expedite the restoration of electricity services.
This came after President Marcos Jr. issued a directive to examine moratorium implementation and flexible payment options to aid recovery in storm-hit areas.
The National Association of Electricity Consumers for Reforms Inc. (NASECORE) lauded the initiative, with its president, Pete Ilagan, describing it as a wise decision in light of the difficulties affected consumers face.
Supporting the ERC’s move, Infrawatch PH convenor Terry Ridon highlighted the need for government assistance to utility providers also impacted by the storm, noting that flexible payment schemes for customers could impact the utilities’ monthly cash flow.
