Manila: The Department of Energy (DOE) has expressed support to Sen. Risa Hontiveros' plan to seek a Senate inquiry on disputed electricity bills and power rate increases. "It's a very much welcome probe by the good Senator kasi kailangan naman talaga (because we need it). We should always be vigilant with the decisions of our public utilities," DOE Secretary Sharon Garin said in a virtual briefing on Monday. "We are very supportive of the probe."

According to Philippines News Agency, Hontiveros filed a resolution on Monday seeking a Senate inquiry into the Energy Regulatory Commission's (ERC) policies on disputed electricity bills and power rate increases. Hontiveros stated that the review could lead to amendments to the Electric Power Industry Reform Act to strengthen consumer protection.

"It's important for monitoring and policing. This is not suggesting that there is guilt among any distribution facility, electric cooperative, or any of our stakeholders, but the probe will help ensure compliance with ERC policies and regulations. It will also aid in improving these regulations and policies," Garin added.