The Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) has ordered a temporary suspension of electricity disconnections and introduced staggered payment arrangements as consumers grapple with rising power rates.

In an interview on DZRH Stories: Pinoy Documentaries on Sunday, May 10, ERC Chairperson Atty. Francis Saturnino C. Juan announced that the commission issued an advisory prohibiting utility companies from disconnecting electricity service for three months.

“Naglabas din ang ERC ng kautusan na walang putulan muna sa loob ng tatlong buwan,” Juan said, noting that the policy covers both residential and non-residential consumers.

The ERC also mandated a staggered payment scheme for residential customers consuming 100 kilowatt-hours or below. Under the arrangement, consumers may pay their electricity bills in installments over three months.

Despite the temporary relief measures, the ERC encouraged consumers who are financially capable to continue paying their bills on time to ensure utilities can meet obligations to power suppliers.

The ERC chief said the agency understands the burden faced by consumers due to increasing electricity rates.

“Kami rin sa ERC ay nagbabayad din ng singil sa kuryente at may kataasan talaga,” Juan said. “Naiintindihan namin ang hinaing at reklamo ng ating consumers.”

Juan also confirmed that the ERC is continuously monitoring generation, transmission, and distribution charges being passed on to consumers to ensure compliance with contracts and existing regulations.

The commission is expected to present its findings and recommendations during a Senate hearing on rising electricity costs scheduled this week.