ERC disappointed by Neri's allegations
The Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) expressed disappointment on the allegations of Romulo Neri, Director General of the National Economic Development Authority (NEDA), that the ERC is one of the government agencies that coddle the industries they regulate. The allegations were reported in news reports printed in the 20 October 2006 issue of several major dailies.
Mr. Neri also said that the ERC is one of the government offices that are prone to regulatory capture. This is the tendency for a regulated firm to succeed in influencing the regulator for the former’s favor. “Mr. Neri’s allegations are based on hearsay. There are no facts and evidence supporting his claims. Casual statements like these may cause mistrust by the people on the ERC. It could lead to restiveness and worst, the failure of the reform agenda contained in the Electric Power Industry Reform Act (EPIRA),” ERC Chairman Rodolfo B. Albano, Jr. said.
“The ERC is strictly implementing the EPIRA. Be it known that the mission of the ERC is to promote and protect the long-term interests of consumers in terms of quality, reliability and reasonable pricing of a sustainable supply of electricity. The ERC remains true to its commitment and has never been remiss in the performance of its duties,” Chairman Albano stressed.
“The success of the reforms in the electric power industry of the country rests on the unity and cooperation of all stakeholders. All concerned parties must unite and contribute in establishing a competitive environment in the electricity industry that will attract the much needed local and foreign capital for a healthier Philippine economy,” Chairman Albano concluded.
November 2 , 2006