MANILA — Several senators have urged the Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) to implement a staggered increase in electricity rates to cushion the impact on consumers amid rising power costs.
Lawmakers made the appeal following concerns that a one-time adjustment in electricity prices could lead to “bill shock” among households already grappling with higher living expenses.
Sen. Sherwin Gatchalian, among those raising the issue, emphasized that spreading out rate hikes over time would help households better manage their electricity expenses instead of facing sudden spikes in their monthly bills.
The proposed staggered implementation comes as regulators consider adjustments in power rates driven by global and domestic factors affecting energy supply and costs.
Gatchalian also suggested that the government explore measures to shield vulnerable sectors, including strengthening subsidy programs, rather than passing the full burden of higher electricity costs onto consumers.
The ERC has yet to announce its final decision on the timing and structure of the rate adjustments, but lawmakers continue to press for consumer-friendly measures as electricity prices remain a key concern for Filipino households.
