MERALCO To Lose Franchise The Same Way ABS-CBN Did Says Gatchalian
MERLACO TO LOSE FRANCHISE – The Manila Electric Co. (MERALCO) could possibly lose its franchise for their refusal to comply with the Energy Regulation Commission (ERC).
Much like ABS-CBN is the biggest media network in the country, Meralco holds the spot for the largest power distributor in the Philippines. However, due to non-compliance with the orders of the ERC, they may face the same fate as ABS-CBN.
According to an article from Inquirer, Senator Sherwin Gatchalian, the chair of the Senate energy committee, warned that they could revoke MERALCO’s franchise. His statements follow MERALCO’s appeal to revoke the P19 million fine imposed by ERC for bill violations.
Previously, several customers of MERALCO complained about receiving spikes in their monthly bills. But, MERALCO failed to explain the sudden rise in charges.
As per the article, Gatchalian said:
“Meralco should not appeal anymore because it’s impossible that the penalty is just P19 million. They have to look at it as a whole”
Meanwhile, MERALCO spokesperson Joe Zaldarriaga said the company respected Gatchalian’s statements. As such, Zaldarriaga said that they had studied the ERC’s decision meticulously.
Furthermore, he asserted that the company had fully complied with the installment plan. “In fact, we went beyond the period stipulated by the ERC which started March 16 only. We included bills falling due March 1 to 15 in the installment plan ordered by the ERC”, said the spokesperson.
However, Gatchalian views the P19 million fine as an insignificant loss for the company. Instead, he proposed that MERALCO pay a P300 million fine.
I think the almost P300 million in penalty is reasonable enough because their violation is nonconformity to the orders of the ERC
Like this article? READ ALSO: Ted Failon Officially Leaves ABS-CBN After 30 Years, Here’s Statement