Legislated power aid rules released

The implementing rules and regulations that will ensure fair and equitable implementation of the law granting lifeline subsidies to qualified marginalized electricity end-users are now in effect.

The Energy Regulatory Commission, Department of Energy, and Department of Social Welfare and Development signed the IRR of Republic Act 11552 last 28 October.

Otherwise known as "An Act Extending and Enhancing the Implementation of the Lifeline Rate, Amending for the Purpose Section 73 of Republic Act. 9136, or the "Electric Power Industry Reform Act of 2001," the law will extend the economic support given to lifeline customers.

A lifeline rate is a subsidy given to low -income households using electricity below 100 kilowatt-hours. It is mandated by Republic Act 9136 or the Electric Power Industry Reform Act of 2001.

"The IRR is the product of effective inter -agency collaboration to deliver better public service. We are looking forward to its successful implementation," ERC chairperson and CEO Monalisa Dimalanta said on Monday.

Energy Secretary Raphael Perpetuo Lotilla, for his part, said the Philippines has one of the best-designed lifeline rate programs in the world; ours is better targeted.

Lotilla added that the IRR will ensure the proper implementation of the law.

Meanwhile, DSWD Undersecretary for Special Concerns Vilma B. Cabrera has committed to assisting in the implementation of the rules and regulations and identifying qualified beneficiaries.

As mandated by law, the ERC, DoE and DSWD, in consultation with the Philippines Statistics Authority and other public and private stakeholders, with the approval of the Joint Congressional Energy Commission, should issue, adopt and promulgate the rules and regulations to implement the provisions of RA 11552.

The DoE is tasked to formulate and promulgate policy guidelines deemed necessary to ensure that the law and its IRR are being lawfully implemented.

Extended relief

On the other hand, the DSWD is tasked to provide a list of qualified household beneficiaries nationwide using a standard targeting system to ensure a uniform and objective procedure for identifying potential beneficiaries.

The DSWD is also tasked to submit an annual list of qualified household beneficiaries under the 4Ps Act to the Do E and ERC.