MANILA, Philippines — A law is being proposed to institutionalize an independent energy watchdog that will focus on consumer protection. Sen. Sherwin Gatchalian, who chairs the Senate Committee on Energy, has filed Senate Bill 2222, or “Energy Consumer Advocate Act,” which seeks to create the energy consumer advocate office (ECAO). Gatchalian said the bill is aimed at institutionalizing independent consumer representation in the energy sector, given the glaring lack of representation for consumers in cases filed before the Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC). “The state must recognize the right of energy consumers to reasonable rates, adequate and reliable services, and transparent processes involving these rates and services,” he said. “Towards this end, there is a need for institutionalized and independent consumer representation in energy-related cases and proceedings before government agencies,” Gatchalian said.

Source: Philippine Star May 17, 2019 15:56 UTC