Consumer group endorses Meralco franchise renewal

MANILA, Philippines — A pro-consumer organization in the energy industry has endorsed the franchise renewal of the Manila Electric Co. (Meralco), saying the power distributor’s continued operations would ensure a smooth flow of electricity in Metro Manila and neighboring provinces.

The Laban Konsyumer Inc. (LKI) lauded Meralco’s efforts to secure sufficient and least-cost supply through the conduct of a series of biddings called competitive selection process (CSP).

“Meralco’s conduct of open and transparent biddings illustrates the company’s efforts to fulfill its ultimate mandate to its customers,” LKI said.

Currently, it is in the process of getting bids for its 1,500-megawatt (MW) supply requirements starting next year.

Meralco’s franchise is set to expire in 2028.

The House committee on legislative franchises, headed by Parañaque Rep. Gus Tambunting, is set to resume hearing on bills that aim to give Meralco a new 25-year franchise.

Rep. Rufus Rodriguez, chairman of the House of Representatives’ committee on constitutional amendments, said Congress’ granting of advanced franchise renewal to the power distribution giant is crucial to the continued expansion of the Philippine economy under the Marcos administration.

Rodriguez and the rest of his House colleagues have hailed the 6.3-percent gross domestic product growth posted by the Philippines for the second quarter of 2024.

Meralco, he said, has proven itself in terms of its quality of service.

“I need not underscore the fact and the numbers are there if one were to care to check that Meralco has the highest level of service in the country as far as electricity distribution is concerned,” he said.

“This is the reason why many LGUs (local government units) have asked Meralco to take over so it can bring its level of service to many areas deprived of reliable electricity,” he stressed.

Earlier this year, Meralco also awarded supply contracts for 3,000-MW baseload supply for 15 years and for its 400-MW interim power supply requirement until next year.

“We strongly support Meralco’s series of CSPs. Power contracts secured through CSP ensure that supply will come from reputable and reliable sources, which help ensure stable and affordable electricity supply for consumers in the years to come,” the group added.