Meralco, other utilities urged to show compassion

MANILA, Philippines — Sen. Bong Go has appealed to the Manila Electric Co. (Meralco) and other distribution utilities (DUs) to study the possibility of extending their deferment of the no-disconnection policy for underprivileged consumers.

Go aired the appeal as Meralco and other DUs started issuing disconnection notices to some of its consumers who have not completely settled their bills after having been allowed to defer payment last year at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic.

“I call on Meralco, if possible, not to cut off electricity to our countrymen who have not yet paid (their electric bills), especially those who have nowhere to get money to pay,” Go said.

“Let’s not burden the ordinary people who have no livelihood or jobs. They hardly have enough food, now their electricity will be cut off. Let’s help them,” he said.

He also urged the government to look into the matter and prioritize the welfare of ordinary Filipinos by finding ways to avoid putting any additional burden to those already struggling to make ends meet.

Meralco’s no-disconnection policy was supposed to end on Dec. 31 last year, but was further extended until the end of January.

Meralco’s vice president and corporate communications head Joe Zaldarriaga earlier said households consuming 201 kilowatt-hours or more were asked to settle their unpaid bills last month, while those consuming 200 kwh and below were allowed to pay until the end of January.

Meralco also said that only non-lifeliners who have not paid any amount since March last year will be disconnected. The company will also allow payment on installment basis upon request.

Following the Energy Regulatory Commission’s issuances, Meralco said the refunds for the inadvertent overcharges during the periods of heightened community quarantine measures are already being implemented and deducted in the billings.