Tulfo Warns Power Firms Against Unjustified Rate Hikes Ahead of Super El Niño

 

Sen. Erwin Tulfo has warned electricity generators and distribution utilities against imposing unreasonable rate increases or providing inadequate service as the Philippines prepares for the potential effects of a stronger El Niño.

As chairman of the Senate Committee on Energy, Tulfo raised concerns following advisories from the Department of Energy (DOE) and power distribution utilities about possible electricity price increases and rotating brownouts during the anticipated climate event.

He stressed that while fluctuations in electricity prices may result from changes in supply and demand, companies must not pass excessive costs on to consumers already struggling with daily expenses. Any adjustment, he said, must be justified and reasonable.

Tulfo also warned that he would use his Senate oversight powers to investigate power companies that might take advantage of the weather crisis to increase profits at the expense of Filipino households.

He called on the DOE and the Energy Regulatory Commission to strengthen monitoring and implement safeguards against supply disruptions and artificially created shortages that could be used to justify higher electricity rates.

Beyond electricity pricing and reliability, Tulfo pointed to the need for stronger coordination among government agencies to address energy access gaps. While acknowledging the House of Representatives' approval of funding for sitio electrification under the proposed 2027 General Appropriations Bill, he emphasized that budget allocations alone would not be enough without effective implementation and coordination on the ground.

State weather forecasters expect El Niño to intensify from September through December 2026 and continue into the first half of 2027. The prolonged dry conditions could place additional pressure on the country's power supply and household budgets, making reliable electricity and fair pricing key concerns in the months ahead.