The effects of El Niño are limiting power supply in Mindanao while increasing demand for more power due to the intense heat. This has resulted in rising electrical costs and Mindanaoans are feeling the brunt of this price surge.
But did you know that all Mindanaoans can avail of a subsidy to help them pay their electric bills? Amid all this electric bill shock, The Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC), Department of Energy (DOE), and Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) are continuing their information campaign to let everyone know about this important subsidy.
A Lifeline For Low-Income Families
The program, called the Lifeline Rate subsidy, can help so many families in Mindanao, especially the ones from low-income households. The ERC, DOE, and DSWD went to Bislig City, Surigao del Sur on April 2, 2024, to make sure that the program can reach as many Mindanaoans as possible via their information and education campaign.
Aside from raising awareness for this helpful benefit, the agencies also held an onsite registration to encourage qualified marginalized end-users (QMEs) to enlist and avail the subsidy so that they can settle their electric bills and avoid the threat of disconnection.
Multi-Agency Effort
Around 462 beneficiaries from the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) and other groups came together at the Bislig City Cultural and Sports Center to participate in discussions led by the three main agencies. Working alongside them were the Bislig City local government and Surigao del Sur I Electric Cooperative, Inc. (SURSECO-I).
With ongoing efforts to encourage the use of the electricity subsidy, distribution utilities are reminded to keep processing applications. This will help ensure that more eligible households can benefit from the lifeline rate program.
