PARE Statement on the Resignation of ERC Chairperson Monalisa Dimalanta: A Critical Moment for Consumer Welfare

                                                          Photo from ERC FB page

Partners for Affordable and Reliable Energy (PARE) expresses deep concern over the irrevocable resignation of ERC Chairperson Monalisa Dimalanta. Coming just a week after the agency assured the public that the retirement of two commissioners would not disrupt operations, this resignation effectively paralyzes the Commission. 

The ERC currently has only two sitting commissioners, resulting in a lack of quorum and an inability to execute its essential regulatory tasks.

ERC’s collapse comes as electricity rates rise, inflation bites, and critical energy issues remain unresolved. With backlogs in refunds, delayed power agreements, and unresolved investigations, consumers are left unprotected — at a time they need regulatory leadership the most.

PARE has long appealed to the ERC and the national government for reforms that will genuinely lower electricity costs—starting with reducing the taxes imposed on consumers and implementing policies to lessen our dependence on imported fossil fuels like coal and diesel. As long as our energy pricing is chained to volatile international markets, Filipinos will remain hostage to unpredictable rate hikes.

Now, with the Commission in chaos, who will safeguard consumer rights? Who will ensure transparency in power supply agreements, audit the performance of private utilities, and uphold the mandate of a fair and equitable energy sector?

We call on President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to act swiftly and decisively—not just in appointing replacements, but in initiating real institutional reforms that protects consumers from expensive electricity rates and dependency on global prices.

The energy sector cannot afford further delays, nor can consumers continue to wait while large industry players profit at our expense.

This is no longer just a regulatory vacancy. It is a test of our government’s resolve to prioritize people over profit—and build a truly consumer-centric energy sector for all Filipinos.

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