ERC
IN ACTION

STRONG LEGISLATIVE SUPPORT FOR ERC’S BUDGET IN FY 2024

17 August 2023 / ERC-Planning and Public Information Service

QUEZON CITY - The Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) under the leadership of Chairperson and CEO Monalisa C. Dimalanta demonstrated its commitment to fulfilling its mandate as it presented its proposed budget for Fiscal Year (FY) 2024 to the House of Representatives Committee on Appropriations during a budget hearing held on 16 August 2023.

"I would like to commend the ERC for a job well done primarily on the fourth regulatory reset," stated Santa Rosa City District Representative Dan S. Fernandez during the budget hearing.

"The ERC will finally complete the reset for the transmission side for the 4th regulatory Period by the 3rd Quarter of this year, and will subsequently complete the reset of the distribution side. Through the reset, we will able to determine the fairness of transmission and distribution rates," Chairperson Dimalanta pointed out.

In her report to the House Committee on Appropriations, Chairperson and CEO Dimalanta highlighted ERC’s accomplishments in FY 2022 and the first semester of 2023, focusing on pursuing affordability, increasing transparency, reinforcing accountability, establishing and implementing energy democracy programs, and completing reforms as mandated in the EPIRA and other related laws.

"The ERC suspended the FIT-All collection and this allowed savings of almost Php 0.04 per kWh for the consumers nationwide. We have also adopted a liniency program in the Commission for the first time. We have adopted this for the meter shop renewal of distribution utilities. We have also started to develop with the National Economic Development Authority (NEDA) a study to create an affordability index for power prices," Chair Dimalanta said.

"I would like to thank the ERC for the suspension of the three percent (3%) franchise tax," Association of Philippine Electric Cooperatives (APEC) Partylist Representative Sergio C. Dagooc said. Congressman Dagooc manifested his support for the restoration of the proposed budget of ERC.

Chairperson Dimalanta outlined ERC’s strategic direction for FY 2024, including the drafting of new regulatory frameworks. The completion of the performance-based regulation (PBR) rate-setting process will improve the affordability of electricity prices. The ERC also reinforces its commitment to accountability through its consumer empowerment campaign and ERC’s re-empowerment.

Committee on Appropriations Vice Chairperson Arnie B. Fuentebella acknowledged the tangible accomplishments of the energy family. "As we continue pivoting toward digitalization, an investment in energy is an investment in the future of the Philippines. As time change, so does the energy landscape. It is important for us to maintain our momentum and remain committed to a sustainable and inclusive development which necessarily includes a focus on the energy sector," Representative Fuentebella expressed in his opening remarks.

The strong support for the programs and projects of the energy family is best described in the words of Cagayan de Oro District Representative Rufus B. Rodriguez "Let us look at what are the needs of DOE, and the ERC and then increase the budget."

During the Committee hearing, the ERC was joined by members of the energy family consisting of the Department of Energy (DOE), National Transmission Corporation (TransCo), National Electrification Administration (NEA), National Power Corporation (NPC), Power Sector Assets and Liabilities Management Corporation (PSALM), and Philippine National Oil Company (PNOC). ##

ERC SIGNS AGREEMENT WITH ILOILO CITY AND MORE POWER FOR GREATER RE PROGRAM

3 August 2023 / ERC-Planning and Public Information Service

(Left photo) The Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) signs the tripartite agreement with Iloilo City Local Government Unit (LGU) and MORE Electric and Power Corporation (MORE POWER). (Right photo, left to right) City Government of Iloilo Executive Assistant Francis T. Cruz, MORE POWER President and CEO Roel Z. Castro, Iloilo City Mayor Jerry P. Treñas, ERC Chairperson and CEO Monalisa C. Dimalanta, ERC Market Operations Service Director Sharon O. Montañer, and MORE POWER Corporate Energy Sourcing and Regulatory Vice President Niel V. Parcon.

ILOILO CITY – In its efforts to make the advantages of the Net-Metering Program and Distributed Energy Resources (DER) more accessible to the people of Iloilo, the Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) entered into a tripartite agreement with the Iloilo City and MORE Electric and Power Corporation (MORE POWER) on 3 August 2023 at the City Mayor’s office.

“With this partnership, we aim to promote green practices, aligning with the national government's targets. In Iloilo, our efforts include solar panels at the national high school, city hall, dialysis centers, and eye care facilities,” Mayor Jerry P. Treñas stressed.

The partnership aims to facilitate collaboration opportunities to encourage the use of renewable energy in the locality, advance renewable energy development and deployment, and share best practices, knowledge, and information on the programs and policies that can help the consumers of Iloilo City pursue renewable energy sources. RE technologies like the Net-Metering and DER can help manage electricity costs, mitigate greenhouse gas emissions, and promote economic progress, benefiting not only Iloilo City but also the entire nation.

“One of the obligations under the agreement is to have a one-stop shop where applicants and interested parties can come. Our collaboration with the city has been active for the past three years, and we warmly welcome the involvement of ERC. Being the first in Visayas to enter into this agreement showcases our strong support for the government,” MORE POWER President and CEO Roel Z. Castro stated.

The ERC will provide the technical and regulatory expertise to streamline the documentary submissions, installation, payment, and permitting processes of the Net-Metering and DER. The ERC will also be part of the information, education, and communication campaign for the electricity consumers.

“This is the second pilot LGU with the ERC for the Net-Metering and greater RE program. We hope that other LGUs are similarly inspired to partner with national agencies to bring solutions closer to our people.” ERC Chairperson and CEO Monalisa C. Dimalanta said.

As of 30 June 2023, the ERC has issued Certificates of Compliance to 72 qualified end-users under the Net-Metering Program in Iloilo City with a total capacity of 985.37 kilowatt-peak.

ERC PHOTO RELEASE: ERC AND NGCP MEET TO STREAMLINE REGULATORY COMPLIANCE

3 August 2023 / ERC-Planning and Public Information Service

IN PHOTO – The Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) Chairperson and CEO Monalisa C. Dimalanta (center, left photo) met with the National Grid Corporation of the Philippines (NGCP) headed by its Board of Directors Vice Chairman Henry Sy, Jr. (2nd from the left, left photo) on 2 August 2023. The discussion focused on NGCP providing the status of pending projects and exploring avenues to streamline regulatory compliance.

ERC Chairperson and CEO Dimalanta is also joined by Head Executive Assistant Rachelle Diaz-Tan. Also in attendance during the meeting were NGCP President and CEO Anthony L. Almeda (leftmost, left photo), Vice President and Revenue and Regulatory Affairs Department Head Ma. Cynthia Y. Manrique (2nd from the right, left photo), and Director Paul P. Sagayo, Jr. (rightmost, left photo).

The ERC regularly engages in discussions with regulated entities to identify valuable opportunities for enhancement within the regulatory framework. Open dialogues play a crucial role in fostering a collaborative strategy to address challenges on achieving a reliable and sustainable energy future.

NGCP PRESENTS PROPOSED TDP TO THE ERC

2 August 2023 / ERC-Planning and Public Information Service

Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) Chairperson and CEO Monalisa C. Dimalanta (center, upper left photo) joined by Commissioner Catherine P. Maceda (fifth from left, upper left photo) and officials from the National Grid Corporation of the Philippines (NGCP) during the NGCP’s presentation of the proposed Transmission Development Plan (TDP). NGCP Vice President and Head of Operations and Maintenance Cesar V. Sanchez (right photo) presents before the ERC.

PASIG CITY – Last Tuesday, 1 August 2023, the National Grid Corporation of the Philippines (NGCP) presented the proposed Transmission Development Plan (TDP) for the years 2023-2040 to the Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC). The TDP is a strategic plan formulated to address the country’s transmission infrastructure needs, and outlines the necessary expansion and upgrade of the transmission system, in order to ensure the reliable and efficient delivery of electricity across the country.

One of the highlights during the presentation was NGCP’s roadmap to achieve the country’s generation targets, which is notably driven by renewable energy sources. These generation targets align with the target of the Philippine Energy Plan (PEP), which seeks to increase renewable energy generation to 35% by 2030 and 50% by 2040. Implementing the PEP will require updating transmission lines to efficiently transmit additional supply to distribution utilities.

The NGCP also discussed the developments in the Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao grids, such as the status of the Mariveles-Balsik San Jose 500kV transmission time project, the Cebu-Negros-Panay 230kV backbone project, and efforts in deploying new power plants in the Zamboanga area and CARAGA region.

ERC PHOTO RELEASE: ERC AND MWSS MEET FOR KNOWLEDGE SHARING

2 August 2023 / ERC-Planning and Public Information Service

Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) Chairperson and CEO Monalisa C. Dimalanta (center, upper left photo) joined by Commissioner Catherine P. Maceda (fifth from left, upper left photo) and officials from the National Grid Corporation of the Philippines (NGCP) during the NGCP’s presentation of the proposed Transmission Development Plan (TDP). NGCP Vice President and Head of Operations and Maintenance Cesar V. Sanchez (right photo) presents before the ERC.

PASIG CITY – The Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) and the Metropolitan Waterworks and Sewerage System (MWSS) met on Tuesday, 1 August 2023, to share their regulatory experiences and best practices, with the goal of improving their services to their respective stakeholders.

During the meeting, the ERC shared its experience as a quasi-judicial agency, particularly on the practical application of its rules of practice and procedure. In addition, the ERC spoke about the novel challenges of using technology in its proceedings, such as broadcasting hearings via its social media pages.

Chairperson and CEO Monalisa C. Dimalanta (4th from the left, front row) highlighted the ERC's efforts in digitalizing the complaint management process through the Consumer Complaints Ticketing System (CCTS), which she hopes would allow consumers easier access to the complaints process in the ERC.

"As regulators, we bear the responsibility of safeguarding the interests of the public while fostering an environment conductive to the growth and development of our sectors. By working together and learning from each other's experiences, we can effectively address the evolving needs of our industries and the public we serve." commented ERC Chair Dimalanta.

Chairperson and CEO Dimalanta is joined by Legal Service (LS) Director Maria Corazon C. Gines (3rd from the left, front row) Consumer Affairs Service Acting Director Gregorio L. Ofalsa (leftmost, 2nd row), Regulatory Operations Service (ROS) Acting Director Legario L. Galang, Jr. (2nd from the left, 2nd row), ROS-Tariffs and Rates Division Chief Alvin Jones M. Ortega (leftmost, front row), LS-Legal Division for Compliance Cases Chief Leila Grace A. San Pedro (2nd from the left, front row), ERC lawyers Josine Alexandra S. Gamboa (3rd from the left, 2nd row), and Jonah Mae Sampang (rightmost, 2nd row).

MWSS contributed actively to the knowledge exchange through the participation of key personnel, including Patrick Lester N. Ty, MWSS Chief Regulator, Claudine B. Orocio-Isorena, Deputy Administrator for Administration and Legal Affairs; Crescenciano B. Minas, Jr., Manager of Legal Affairs Department; and Francis Ople, Chief Corporate Attorney.

PHOTO RELEASE: CONTINUING REGULATORY EDUCATION FOR LUZON STAKEHOLDERS

1 September 2023 / ERC-Planning and Public Information Service

IN PHOTO: ERC Planning and Public Information Service (PPIS) Director Ellen C. Ebcas (Left photo, 4th from the left) and Consumer Affairs Service (CAS) Acting Director Gregorio L. Ofalsa (Left photo, 4th from the right) leads ERC’s Continuing Regulatory Education for Stakeholders (CREST) in Baguio City.

PASIG CITY – In an effort to strengthen collaboration with stakeholders by providing updates on its rules and programs, the Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) conducted its Continuing Regulatory Education for Stakeholders (CREST) last 30-31 August 2023 for distribution utilities (DUs), generation companies (GenCos), and third-party meter shops located in Luzon.

ERC Engineers Marvin C. Saccuan, Magelle Kris C. Macabeo and Rainier F. Almadrigo discussed the guidelines for meter shop accreditation and proposed amendments to the advanced metering infrastructure. Atty. Arjay Louie Eu B. Cuanan discussed the leniency program on the periods for filing of applications for renewal of Certificates of Authority to operate and maintain a meter shop.

The CREST showcased two systems under the ERC LINKod Program, namely the Online Filing and Application System (OFAS) and the Billing and Revenue System – Cashiering System (BRS-CS). Information Officer August Anthony N. Balute and Information Technology Officer Ranjit G. Montablan discussed the salient features of the OFAS, while Financial and Management Officer Benigno Emil Y. Nalus and Administrative Officer Cherry Lynn S. Gonzales discussed the BRS-CS.

"Through detailed and interactive discussions, hands-on simulations, and access to the latest digital tools, the CREST program aims to improve compliance with ERC rules and empower stakeholders in navigating ERC’s new digital platform," ERC Consumer Affairs Service Acting Director Gregorio L. Ofalsa said in his opening remarks.

In supporting the advancement of the abilities of consumer welfare desk officers of DUs, the ERC invited Erwin Gregorio of PH Consulting to discuss effective complaint handling skills.

During the open forum, stakeholders raised clarifications on the coverage and filing period of the leniency program for meter shop, as well as details on the accuracy test of meters.

The ERC is also set to hold the CREST for the stakeholders in Visayas and Mindanao within the year.

PHOTO RELEASE: ERC ATTENDS THE WESM OPERATIONS BRIEFING

8 September 2023 / ERC-Planning and Public Information Service

IN PHOTO: The ERC delegation led by its Commissioners Alexis M. Lumbatan (front row, 5th from left), Catherine P. Maceda (front row, 4th from left) and Marko Romeo L. Fuentes (front row, 6th from left) with the IEMOP officials and staff headed by its President Richard J. Nethercott (back row, 4th from the right) at the WESM Operations Briefing.

QUEZON CITY – The Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) officers and technical staff attended the briefing on the operations of the Wholesale Electricity Spot Market (WESM) conducted by the Independent Electricity Market Operator of the Philippines Inc. (IEMOP) on 7 September 2023 at the IEMOP Operations Site.

During the said briefing, IEMOP presented its functions, organization, systems, and programs for implementation in pursuit of its objectives as an Independent Market Operator (IMO) of maintaining a fair, competitive, and reliable electricity trading market in the country.

PHOTO RELEASE: ERC SIGNS MOA/MOU WITH SSS

8 September 2023 / ERC-Planning and Public Information Service

IN PHOTO: ERC Chairperson and CEO Atty. Monalisa C. Dimalanta (left photo, 4th from the left) during the MOA/MOU signing with SSS. Chairperson and CEO Dimalanta is joined by Executive Director Nancy Aurora Q. Fajardo (left photo, 3rd from the left), Financial and Administrative Service Acting Director Judith L. Mangosing (left photo, leftmost), Human Resource Management Division Chief Atty. Romilinda C. Sibal (left photo, 2nd from the left) and Atty. Josine Alexandra S. Gamboa (left photo, rightmost). The SSS is represented by President and CEO Rolando Ledesma Macasaet (left photo, center), SSS Executive Vice President, Branch Operations Sector Voltaire P. Agas (left photo, 4th from the right), Acting Senior Vice President, NCR Operations Group Maria Rita Abuja (left photo, 3rd from the right), and SSS Pasig Pioneer Branch Head III Zenaida B. Bolado (left photo, 2nd from the right).

QUEZON CITY – The Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) signs a Memorandum of Agreement/Understanding (MOA/MOU) with the Social Security System (SSS) to facilitate the provision of social security protection to the ERC’s Contract of Service (COS) and Job Order (JO) personnel who are not covered by the Government Service Insurance System (GSIS). The signing ceremony was held on 8 September 2023 at the SSS Main Office.

Under the agreement, interested COS and JO personnel of ERC will get social security coverage as self-employed members under the Social Security Act of 2018 and may avail of maternity, sickness, disability, retirement, funeral and death benefits, among others. ERC’s regular/permanent employees who are existing SSS members may also opt to continue paying contributions as voluntary members for the remittance of their preferred monthly social security contributions.

Other partner-agencies/governmental units that also signed MOA/MOU with SSS include the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA), Philippine Public Safety College (PPSC), Employees’ Compensation Commission (ECC), and the Local Government Units (LGUs) of Taguig City and Malabon.

Photo Release: ERC at the Giga Summit: Be Energy SMART

12 September 2023/ERC-Planning and Public Information Service

(Left photo) ERC Chairperson and CEO Atty. Monalisa C. Dimalanta (center) at the Giga Summit with Meralco officials, namely First Vice President and Chief Human Resources Officer Edgardo V. Carasig (leftmost), Senior Vice President and Chief External and Government Affairs Officer Arnel D. Casanova (2nd from the left), Senior Vice President and Chief Revenue Officer Ferdinand O. Geluz (2nd from the right), and Meralco Power Academy President Nixon G. Hao (rightmost).

MAKATI CITY - At the Giga Summit hosted by the Manila Electric Company (Meralco), the Energy Regulatory Commission’s (ERC) Chairperson and CEO, Atty. Monalisa C. Dimalanta, underscores the ERC’s commitment to promote initiatives aimed at reducing carbon emissions and lowering energy intensity. This includes regulatory support for the scaling up of renewable energy technologies, through programs like the Net-Metering Program, Green Energy Auction Program, Green Energy Option Program, Feed-in Tariff Program and Allowance, Reserves Market, and Renewable Portfolio Standards.

In her presentation, she highlights the crucial role of emerging technologies in diversifying the Philippines’ energy portfolio, which in turn will enhance energy accessibility, decrease reliance on fossil fuels, and mitigate the environmental impact of energy production and consumption.

Chairperson and CEO Dimalanta concludes her discussion with a call to action to be energy SMART, which stands for Sustainable choices, Maximizing efficiency, Awareness of environmental impact, Responsible consumption, and Technology adoption.

The Giga Summit is a three-day event hosted by Meralco’s Power Academy which aims to provide a platform for energy professionals and policymakers to collaborate and exchange ideas on harnessing sustainable energy solutions.

ERC Conducts Public Consultation on CSP Rules

22 September 2023/ERC-Planning and Public Information Service

ERC Chairperson and CEO Monalisa C. Dimalanta (left photo, right) and Commissioner Alexis M. Lumbatan (left photo, left) presided over the public consultation on the draft CSP rules.

PASIG CITY - The Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) conducted the public consultation on the Implementing Guidelines for the Procurement, Execution, and Evaluation of Power Supply Agreements Entered into by Distribution Utilities for the Supply of Electricity to Their Captive Market, as well as the draft Template for the Power Supply Agreements on 22 September 2023.

Generation companies, Distribution Utilities and Consumer Groups joined the consultation to express their comments on the draft rules.

"Let us continue with the spirit of collaboration leading to the best interests of our consumers," said Chairperson Dimalanta during the opening of the public consultation.

"Trust that we will put value and we will consider all your comments and insights. We look forward to the new CSP Rules, which is fair and will best serve the interests of the consumers," Commissioner Alexis M. Lumbatan assured the participants at the closing of the public consultation.

The ERC held the public consultation in accordance with Sections 23, 25, and 45(b) of the EPIRA and Rule 7, Section 4(h) and Rule 11 Section 5 of its Implementing Rules and Regulations. The public consultation provided the stakeholders the opportunity to actively engage in shaping crucial guidelines, such as the CSP Rules, which aim to enhance efficiency and transparency in the process of evaluation and procurement of Power Supply Agreements, and ensure sustainability, sufficiency, and stability of power supply.

House of Representatives Concludes the FY 2024 Budget Deliberation for the ERC

26 September 2023/ERC-Planning and Public Information Service

The ERC headed by Chairperson and CEO, Atty. Monalisa C. Dimalanta (left photo) with Commissioners Alexis M. Lumbatan (right photo, seated 2nd row, 2nd from the right) and Marko Romeo L. Fuentes (right photo, seated 2nd row, rightmost) at the FY 2024 budget deliberations of the House of Representatives.

QUEZON CITY - The Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) extends its appreciation to the House of Representatives for supporting its proposed budget for the Fiscal Year 2024 General Appropriations Bill, as deliberated in the plenary session on Monday, 25 September 2023.

Hon. Arnie B. Fuentebella, Committee on Appropriations Vice Chairperson, articulated the critical role of energy in the nation's progress, echoing President Marcos' emphasis on energy as a cornerstone of his flagship projects, envisioning total electrification, the realization of green energy goals, and the exploration of diverse energy sources.

During the plenary session, APEC Party-List Representative, Hon. Sergio C. Dagooc, lauded the ERC for its prompt action on the matter of NGCP's franchise tax. The Commission's decision to suspend the collection of franchise tax from consumers marks a significant step toward substantial reforms in the energy industry, promising lower electricity rates for the Filipino people.

The ERC remains committed to its mission of safeguarding the interests of consumers and promoting a competitive and sustainable energy sector.###

Mindanao Stakeholders Benefit from the ERC's Continuing Regulatory Education

29 September 2023/ERC-Planning and Public Information Service

The ERC Continuing Regulatory Education for Stakeholders (CREST) for the different distribution utilities in Mindanao (Left photo). ERC staff discusses relevant issuances (Upper right and lower right photo).

SURIGAO DEL NORTE - The Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) successfully conducted the Continuing Regulatory Education for Stakeholders (CREST) for Mindanao's distribution utilities (DUs), generation companies (GenCos), and third-party meter shops on September 27-28, 2023.

The CREST featured informative sessions conducted by ERC Engineers Marvin C. Saccuan, Alexes Y. Mongas, Magelle Kris C. Macabeo, and Rainier F. Almadrigo. Topics included are accreditation guidelines, in-service testing and validation for meter shops, the leniency program related to application for renewal of Certificates of Authority to operate and maintain meter shops, and the proposed enhancements to the advanced metering infrastructure.

One of the highlights of the event was the introduction of the two (2) key systems within the ERC LINKod to the Mindanao stakeholders: the Online Filing and Application System (OFAS) and the Billing and Revenue System – Cashiering System (BRS-CS). Information Technology Officers Teofilo G. Arbalate, Jr. and Ranjit G. Montablan provided valuable insights into the functionalities of OFAS, while Financial and Management Officer Benigno Emil Y. Nalus expounded on the features of BRS-CS.

The online systems discussed during the CREST are designed to simplify government processes, bringing ERC services closer to the public and enhancing their accessibility. The ERC is gearing up to host a similar CREST event for stakeholders in the Visayas region.###

Photo Release: ERC receives CoC for full compliance with the FOI requirements

03 October 2023 / ERC-Planning and Public Information Service

PASIG CITY - The Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) has recently been awarded a Certificate of Compliance (CoC) by the Presidential Communications Office (PCO) in recognition of its full compliance with the Freedom of Information (FOI) criteria outlined in Section 5.0 of Memorandum Circular No. 2022-1 issued by the Inter-Agency Task Force on the Harmonization of National Government Performance Monitoring Information and Reporting Systems (Task Force Administrative Order 25, s. 2011).

The ERC has been a recipient of Certificate of Compliance in recognition of its full compliance with the FOI requirements since 2018.

"The ERC continues to aim at increased levels of transparency and accountability in the power industry. We take on this challenge and commit to enhance stakeholder access to information to earn the public’s trust in our brand of service," ERC Chairperson and CEO Monalisa Dimalanta said.

The ERC FOI Manual focuses on streamlining the process to ensure that all requests for information are efficiently handled by the ERC and is an affirmation of the ERC's commitment to greater transparency and accountability.###