PEPOA Endorses MERALCO Franchise Renewal

The Private Electric Power Operators Association (PEPOA) has officially voiced its support for the renewal of the Manila Electric Company’s (MERALCO) franchise in a significant development for the Philippine energy sector.

MERALCO’s prompt assistance in sharing resources during typhoons and other calamities has alleviated the suffering of millions, showcasing its invaluable role in disaster response and recovery. | Photo: MERALCO

This endorsement, articulated in a letter dated June 3, 2024, addressed to Hon. Gus S. Tambunting, Chairperson of the Committee on Legislative Franchises, underscores the critical role MERALCO plays in providing reliable electricity and driving the nation’s economic growth.

Signed by PEPOA President Ranulfo M. Ocampo, the letter highlights MERALCO’s exemplary track record in delivering consistent and dependable electricity.

The association emphasizes that MERALCO’s operational excellence has significantly reduced system losses and minimized power interruptions, greatly benefiting millions of electricity end-users across the country.

“MERALCO’s commitment to operational excellence and resilience is evident through its continuous efforts to adopt innovative programs,” Ocampo stated. Notable initiatives include the Interruptible Load Program (ILP), Prepaid Electricity Service, Peak/Off-Peak Program, Net Metering Program, and the Green Energy Option Program (GEOP).

These programs not only enhance customer choice but also contribute to a greener energy landscape, reflecting MERALCO’s forward-thinking approach.

PEPOA also commended MERALCO’s dedication to social responsibility and universal service. The company has made substantial progress towards achieving 100% household electrification and supports community welfare programs like the Lifeline Rate, which provides significant discounts to the poorest customers.

These efforts underscore MERALCO’s commitment to improving the quality of life for all Filipinos.

In times of natural disasters, MERALCO’s collaborative efforts with PEPOA distribution utilities (DUs) have been crucial in swiftly restoring power and maintaining stability in affected regions.

The company’s prompt assistance in sharing resources during typhoons and other calamities has alleviated the suffering of millions, showcasing its invaluable role in disaster response and recovery.

The renewal of MERALCO’s franchise is seen as essential for the continued improvement of its services and the completion of capital-intensive projects that benefit electricity end-users.

PEPOA argues that renewing the franchise will secure the stability of the power sector and serve the best interests of the Filipino people and the Philippine economy.

In a parallel show of support, the Management Association of the Philippines (MAP) also recently endorsed MERALCO’s franchise renewal.

MAP President Mr. Rene D. Almendras and Ms. Ruth Y. Owen, Chair of the MAP Energy Committee, highlighted MERALCO’s significant contributions to the Philippine economy and its alignment with MAP’s mission to promote management excellence for nation-building.

MAP lauded MERALCO’s commitment to renewable energy, noting its substantial contribution to the Green Energy Option Program (GEOP), with a 64% share of the program’s total energy consumption within its franchise area.

This dedication to sustainable energy practices underscores MERALCO’s role as a leader in the country’s transition to greener energy sources.

With endorsements from both PEPOA and MAP, the case for renewing MERALCO’s franchise is bolstered by a clear recognition of its pivotal role in the energy sector and its ongoing contributions to the nation’s progress.