Ilocos norte: Residents here have expressed optimism over the proposed amendments to Republic Act 9136, or the Electric Power Industry Reform Act (EPIRA), hoping the changes will help reduce electricity rates and improve the delivery of power services. During his 5th State of the Nation Address, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. emphasized that system loss should not be blamed and passed on to consumers.
According to Philippines News Agency, under the EPIRA, distribution utilities may automatically collect pass-through charges, including charges from system loss, which refers to the cost of electricity lost to illegal connections and metering errors that do not reach customers. President Marcos also sought Congress's assistance in passing a law that would facilitate the installation of solar panels on homes for ordinary Filipinos.
In Ilocos Norte, consumers said lower electricity costs would ease household expenses and benefit businesses, particularly micro, small, and medium enterprises, which have long cited high power rates as a financial challenge. "It is just right and proper not to pass on the system loss to consumers. It should be acted upon the soonest possible time as this has a direct impact to ordinary citizens," Bing Soriano, a resident here, told the Philippine News Agency.
Marcel Cristobal, another resident from the city, expressed his belief in the President's sincerity regarding the issue of system loss. "It's a big relief on our part if this happens," he said.
The President's call to amend the EPIRA law is expected to be studied by lawmakers and relevant government agencies as part of broader efforts to strengthen the country's power sector, improve efficiency, and make electricity more affordable for consumers. The Ilocos Norte Electric Cooperative welcomed the President's pronouncement, saying, "Challenge accepted, Apo President!"
Local business owners and consumers expressed hope that the amendments would strike a balance between protecting consumers, encouraging investments in the energy industry, and ensuring stable electricity service.
