The Private Electric Power Operators Association (PEPOA) manifests its support for the renewal of MERALCO’s franchise.
Its track record shows that MERALCO has provided reliable electricity that served as the backbone of businesses and enhanced the quality of life for millions of Filipinos. Its dedication to operational excellence and resilience demonstrates its firm resolve to reduce system losses and the duration and frequency of power interruptions that greatly benefitted electricity end-users.
Being on the cutting edge of distribution technology, MERALCO is at the forefront in adopting innovative programs, such as the Interruptible Load Program (ILP), Prepaid Electricity Service, Peak/Off-Peak program, Net Metering Program and the Green Energy Option Program’s (GEOP), that worked to enhance customer choice while fostering a greener energy landscape.
Further, MERALCO has shown a strong dedication to social responsibility and universal service by making substantial progress towards the goal of 100% household electrification, not to mention its commitment to community welfare programs like the Lifeline Rate that provide substantial discounts to the poorest customers.
In times of natural disasters, the combined efforts of PEPOA DUs and MERALCO have proven to be crucial in swiftly restoring power and maintaining stability in regions hard hit by typhoons and other calamities. MERALCO’s invaluable assistance in sharing its resources to typhoon-ravaged regions in the Philippines has alleviated the sufferings of millions of affected customers.
The renewal of a DU’s franchise, especially when the DU has demonstrated its capability to consistently fulfill its mandate under the law will give the DU the opportunity to continue improving its service to its customers and the timely completion of its capital-intensive projects, all of which redound to better service of electricity end-users. This will secure the stability of the power sector and serve the best interests of the Filipino people and the Philippine economy.
In view of the foregoing, PEPOA respectfully endorses the renewal of MERALCO’s legislative franchise proposed under House Bill Nos. 9793, 9813 and 10317.