The Independent Electricity Market Operator of the Philippines (IEMOP) has reaffirmed its firm enforcement of rules governing the Wholesale Electricity Spot Market (WESM). They emphasize that financial obligations of defaulting market participants are not to be shouldered by consumers.

In a statement, IEMOP expressed gratitude to the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI) for backing accountability and discipline in the electricity market. The operator clarified that unpaid dues from WESM participants remain the responsibility of the defaulting parties and are recorded as receivables by generation companies and other sellers, and thus not passed on to the public.

IEMOP highlighted its consistent implementation of WESM rules and market manuals, including the issuance of default and suspension notices, imposition of penalties, and, if necessary, suspension or deregistration of erring participants. These measures aim to protect compliant players and uphold market integrity.

Collected penalties from non-compliant entities, in accordance with the WESM Penalty Manual (Issue 3.0), are returned to consumers through their distribution utilities, electric cooperatives, or electricity suppliers.

The agency also reaffirmed PCCI’s call for greater transparency in billing practices among Retail Electricity Suppliers (RES). They reiterate its commitment to a transparent, fair, and efficient marketplace for all.

As the official market operator, IEMOP is governed by a professional and independent board, and operates under the Electric Power Industry Reform Act (EPIRA), its implementing rules, and relevant issuances of the Department of Energy.

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