House committee OKs Meralco’s franchise renewal for 25 years

The House Committee on Legislative Franchise has approved the measure extending the franchise of Manila Electric Company (Meralco) for 25 years.

“For the past few months, we have held meetings to discuss the franchise application of Meralco. Since then, we have received various letters of support,” Parañaque Rep. Gustav Tambunting said Tuesday in a statement.

Tambunting, who also chairs the Legislative Franchise Committee, said nearly two dozen business groups showed support for renewing Meralco’s franchise.

These groups include industry federations as well as the Japanese and British chambers of commerce.

Meralco operates electric distribution systems in Bulacan, Cavite, Metro Manila, and Rizal, as well as areas in the provinces of Batangas, Laguna, Pampanga, and Quezon.

Its franchise will expire in 2028.

Albay Rep. Joey Salceda, Marinduque Rep. Lord Allan Jay Velasco, and Cagayan de Oro City Rep. Rufus Rodriguez filed separate bills this year seeking to extend Meralco’s franchise by another 25 years.

The measure noted the reliable service provided by Meralco.

“Everything has been fully discussed [during the House committee hearings]. No other issue has been put forward. Meralco has long been serving our country well and they deserve to be granted a new franchise,” Rodriguez said.

Meanwhile, the United Filipino Consumers and Commuters (UFCC) raised concern over the “ill-timed” push for Meralco’s franchise renewal as customers feel the weight of the increasing power rates. 

Meralco has announced another upward adjustment in its rates in August due to higher transmission charges.    —NB, GMA Integrated News