MANILA, Philippines — The dwindling power supply and the possible increase in power rates, compounded by the adverse effects of the COVID-19 pandemic could spell a “triple whammy” to disadvantaged Filipinos, Senator Grace Poe said Monday. “The looming power rate increase coupled with the rotational brownouts in the midst of the coronavirus pandemic could be a triple whammy too much for our people’s forbearance,” Poe, chair of the Senate committee on public services, said in a statement. ADVERTISEMENTPoe issued the statement as the Department of Energy warned that consumers in Luzon may expect higher electricity bills due to thin power supply. She also pointed out that access to reliable and affordable energy is necessary in addressing the pandemic and accelerating the country’s recovery. “Why should the Filipino consumers pay more for electricity that comes intermittently and is among the highest rates in Southeast Asia?” Poe said.

Source: Philippine Daily Inquirer June 07, 2021 04:16 UTC