Sen. Rodante Marcoleta proposed expanding government subsidies to cover electricity bills of Filipino families consuming up to 200 kilowatt-hours (kWh) per month during a recent PROTECT committee hearing.
Marcoleta said the proposal is part of a bill currently being pushed in the Senate. Under the measure, the government would subsidize electricity expenses of households that consume no more than 200kWh monthly.
According to the senator, the implementation of the proposal aims to eliminate both “exclusive” and “inclusive” errors in the distribution of assistance under the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD). He added that the system would help ensure that government aid reaches Filipino families directly and prevent possible misuse or corruption in the delivery of assistance.
Marcoleta estimated that households could save around P2,500 if the proposal is implemented.
He said the government would need an estimated P100 billion to P120 billion to fund the program. He also suggested that funds from existing DSWD programs, such as the Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situations (AICS) and the Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa Ating Disadvantaged/Displaced Workers (TUPAD), could be included in financing the proposal.
In response to Marcoleta’s suggestion, the DSWD said it is willing to coordinate with the senator to ensure that assistance distribution remains equitable for beneficiaries.
Currently, under the lifeline rate implemented by Meralco, households consuming between 0 to 50kWh per month receive a 100% discount. Those using 51 to 70kWh receive a 35% discount, while households consuming 71 to 100kWh are given a 20% discount.
