Manila—Senator Sherwin Gatchalian has urged the Energy Regulation Commission (ERC) to allow power consumers to pay their electricity bills in staggered installments in response to recent sharp increases in power rates.
According to Philippines News Agency, during a radio interview on Wednesday, similar measures were implemented during the COVID-19 pandemic, which provided consumers relief from immediate financial burdens by permitting payments over extended periods without accruing interest, penalties, or other charges. "Give our consumers the option to make staggered payments. During the pandemic, I remember, the staggered payments even lasted two or three months," Gatchalian stated. He emphasized that while payments are staggered, power should not be disconnected, and no interest should be charged.
Gatchalian highlighted the impact of the recent spike in electricity costs, noting that it places significant strain on consumers who manage their finances with fixed budgets. He also shared a personal anecdote, revealing that his own household experienced a nearly 50% increase in their electricity bill, attributed primarily to the hot season.
During the pandemic, while the ERC encouraged customers who were able to pay their bills on time to do so to assist energy companies with cash flow, it also called on companies to offer incentives for early payment to mitigate financial difficulties for both parties.