Industry Rallies Behind Suspended ERC Chief

The preventive suspension of Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) Chairperson and CEO Monalisa Dimalanta by the Office of the Ombudsman has sparked an overwhelming outpouring of support from various sectors in the Philippine power industry and beyond.

Business organizations like the Makati Business Club (MBC), Employers Confederation of the Philippines (ECOP), Philippine Exporters Confederation, Inc. (PHILEXPORT) and the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI) voiced strong support for ERC’s reforms under Chairperson Dimalanta, urging for her swift return to office. | Photo: MBC

The suspension, issued in response to a complaint filed by the National Association of Electricity Consumers for Reforms Inc. (Nasecore), alleges neglect of duty concerning the ERC's failure to recalibrate Meralco's electricity rates to safeguard public interests.

In an order dated August 29, the Ombudsman argued that Dimalanta’s continued presence could "prejudice the case filed against her" and thus ordered her suspension for six months without pay, pending the case's resolution.

Nasecore's complaint points to delays in recalculating distribution and wheeling charges, which affect consumer rates.

These delays reportedly stem from postponed hearings and unresolved motions regarding Meralco's projects from 2015 to 2022. Despite these allegations, Dimalanta expressed her heartfelt appreciation for the overwhelming support she has received via her LinkedIn post.

"Truly overwhelmed and moved by the outpouring of support from inside and out of the Philippine power industry,” she wrote, noting that the last few days have been "nothing short of surreal."

She reaffirmed her commitment to reforms within the ERC, emphasizing that such changes may come at a significant personal cost but are necessary for lasting improvement.

Business organizations such as the Makati Business Club (MBC), Employers Confederation of the Philippines (ECOP), Philippine Exporters Confederation, Inc. (PHILEXPORT) and the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI) have publicly backed Dimalanta, recognizing her efforts in ensuring affordable power for low-income households and promoting foreign investment in renewable energy.

They stressed that her leadership at the ERC has been pivotal in addressing industry concerns and enhancing the country’s economic competitiveness.

The MBC highlighted Dimalanta's role in implementing the Lifeline Rate Subsidy Program and facilitating foreign investments in renewable energy through collaborations with government agencies.

The business community has voiced concern that her suspension could disrupt regulatory processes and negatively impact investor confidence in the power sector.

These stakeholders have called for her swift reinstatement, citing the critical importance of the ERC's role in safeguarding consumer interests and maintaining the stability of the Philippine energy market.