MERALCO: Rates go through assessment, approval

Manila Electric Company (MERALCO) stresses that its rates go through a comprehensive assessment, approval, and verification procedure before being adopted by the regulator to ensure they are competitive and affordable. 

This statement was issued in response to the National Association of Electricity Consumers for Reforms Inc.’s (NASECORE) appeal for the Commission on Audit to thoroughly audit the distribution utility (DU) company.

MERALCO pointed out that the Supreme Court’s (SC) ruling confirms the Energy Regulatory Commission’s (ERC) sole jurisdiction over determining the rates for DUs.

The ERC is responsible for performing regulatory rate adjustments, following guidelines that dictate the pricing structures for all power utilities across the country, including MERALCO.

The commission’s regulatory rate-setting process ensures transparency, with comprehensive public hearings and consultations that guide potential rate adjustments—whether increases or reductions—as determined by the commission.

MERALCO said it remains fully committed to adhering to legal and regulatory frameworks, continuously maintaining openness and cooperation in all aspects of its operations.