Manila: The National Grid Corporation of the Philippines (NGCP) is optimistic that the resignation of Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) Chairperson Monalisa Dimalanta will not negatively impact regulatory filings. 'As regards (to what) the effect will be on the NGCP's applications, the ERC is a continuing body. So, even though there will be vacancies, I am sure that the government, this administration, will ensure that crucial work that is given to them to ensure the continuous development of the energy industry as well as the balance of consumer interest will move on unhampered,' NGCP spokesperson lawyer Cynthia Alabanza said in a briefing on Monday.

According to Philippines News Agency, Malaca±ang confirmed on Monday that Dimalanta submitted her 'irrevocable resignation' to President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. Aside from the ERC chairperson's post, the agency currently has two vacancies after the retirement of Commissioners Alexis Lumbatan and Catherine Maceda last July 10.

Last May, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. directed all Cabinet secretaries to submit their courtesy resignations 'to realign government with the people's expectations.' The move aims to give the President leeway to assess how the various government agencies have performed and how to improve services and programs further.

Earlier in the day, the President swore in Energy Secretary Sharon Garin, a former lawmaker and Department of Energy undersecretary, and cited her experience in Congress as a factor that will help her make policies that support clean, reliable, and cheap energy.