Editorial: ​Probe high electric bills, but for the right reasons [Manila Times]

From The Manila Times: This week, Sen. Panfilo Lacson called for a Senate inquiry into the apparent phenomenon of “electric bill shock.” We agree with him, because widespread public concern over the affordability of a basic public service simply cannot be ignored, and the terms in which Lacson framed his call are sensible.

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Lacson Resolution Seeks Probe into ‘Bill Shock,’ Continued Power Rate Hikes

Sen. Panfilo “Ping” M. Lacson has filed a resolution seeking a Senate inquiry into the continuing increase in electricity rates and the “bill shock” experienced by consumers, amid concerns over unexplained charges, alleged irregularities in meter readings, and system losses ultimately shouldered by law-abiding consumers.

Under Senate Resolution No. 511, Lacson urged the appropriate Senate committee to conduct an inquiry in aid of legislation, to strengthen transparency, accountability and consumer protection in the power industry.

“(While) access to affordable and reliable electricity is fundamental to promoting Filipinos’ welfare, national productivity, and economic development … residential electricity rates in the Philippines are among the highest in Southeast Asia, ranking second in costs at approximately US$0.18–US$0.21 per kilowatt-hour (kWh), next only to Singapore’s average of US$0.23 per kWh, thus placing a disproportionate financial burden on Filipino families, workers, and enterprises,” Lacson said in his resolution filed on Monday, July 13.

In Filipino: Lacson, Nais Imbestigahan ang ‘Bill Shock’ at Patuloy na Pagtaas ng Singil sa Kuryente
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