Northern Samar Solon Backs Marcos on Removing System Loss Charges from Bills

Northern Samar Second District Representative Edwin Ongchuan has pledged support for President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.'s proposal to amend the Electric Power Industry Reform Act (EPIRA), specifically the removal of system loss charges from consumers' electricity bills. Ongchuan stated that the measure would help ease the burden of rising power costs for the public. Ongchuan, who also serves as vice chairperson of the Committee on Energy, emphasized that the proposal would directly alleviate the financial strain on citizens, particularly those with lower incomes. System loss refers to the electricity that is lost in the power transmission network due to factors such as line losses, pilferage, and faulty equipment. Historically, a portion of the costs associated with these losses has been passed on to consumers through their electricity bills. The proposed amendment aims to enhance transparency in electricity billing and potentially increase oversight of distribution utilities regarding inefficiencies or malpractices. President Marcos Jr. has indicated his intention to push for this legislative change as part of broader efforts to reduce the cost of living for Filipinos. The bill's progress through Congress is anticipated with interest. Electricity rates in the Philippines are influenced by various factors, including fluctuations in fuel prices, infrastructure investments, and the operational efficiency of distribution utilities. The aging of infrastructure and the maintenance of extensive power grids can contribute to system losses. This proposed legislative amendment is seen as a step towards addressing these challenges.