By CESAR JOLITO III
The Alliance of Concerned Consumers in Electricity and Social Services (ACCESS) has welcomed the recent amendments to the Magna Carta for Household Electricity Consumers and the Electric Power Industry Reform Act (EPIRA), describing the reforms as a significant boost to consumer protection and affordability in the power sector.
In a press statement, ACCESS said the amendments, championed by the Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC), introduce concrete safeguards that directly benefit ordinary Filipino households, particularly low-income families and marginalized sectors.
Among the key provisions is the implementation of a national uniform lifeline subsidy, which grants a 100 percent discount on the first 50 kilowatt-hours of monthly electricity consumption for Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program beneficiaries and other qualified low-income households.
ACCESS said the measure is expected to provide immediate relief from high electricity costs.
The amendments also strengthen consumer rights through a faster and fairer bill dispute resolution process.
Consumers may now deposit only the disputed amount while requesting meter testing, reducing financial strain during billing conflicts.
To further improve access to electricity, the reforms simplify service application requirements for new residential connections.
Applicants are now required to submit only a government-issued ID, a completed application form, an electrical inspection certificate, and proof of ownership or barangay certification — cutting red tape and expediting service delivery.
Additional protections include stricter rules on disconnection, such as longer notice periods, particularly for customers in remote areas, and a prohibition on service disconnections during emergencies.
The amendments also enhance consumer participation by guaranteeing the right to organize, take part in public consultations, and access essential service information.
“These amendments are a victory for every Filipino electricity consumer,” ACCESS President Wennie Sancho said.
“ACCESS has long advocated for lower rates, stronger protection, and greater transparency. We urge all distribution utilities to fully implement these reforms and encourage consumers to know their rights and take advantage of the benefits now available to them,” he added.
ACCESS also called on electricity consumers in Negros to participate in the Consumers Education and Awareness Program sponsored by the organization.
The group advised consumers to coordinate with their respective distribution utilities or the ERC for guidance on how to avail of the new rights and benefits under the amended laws./CJ, WDJ