THE Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) on Monday said there are existing laws protecting consumers on meter testing, billing and disconnection concerns.
It affirmed that Akbayan Rep. Chel Diokno was correct in his social media posts on consumers’ right to witness meter testing before penalties are imposed. This right is enshrined in law and that violations carry legal consequences for distribution utilities (DUs), said the ERC.
During any inspection or apprehension, customers have the right to be present and witness the removal and testing of their meter — a right they must not waive, said the ERC.
If a DU removes a meter or disconnects one without an ERC meter test report, the action is a potential violation of consumer rights under existing law.
Customers who receive a differential billing or adjustment they believe is incorrect or improperly imposed may pay under protest while filing a complaint, preserving their legal remedies.
For disputes involving estimated bills, meter errors, or differential billings, filing a complaint automatically suspends disconnection, and payment of the disputed amount is not required beforehand.
The ERC said the current framework already favors consumers, and DUs that violate these rules face major consequences, including being barred from collecting differential billings altogether.
The Philippine Distribution Code requires DUs to properly maintain metering equipment and promptly detect and repair defects, the ERC said, adding that a DU that neglects this duty cannot later use those same defects as grounds for charging consumers.
The ERC said it looks forward to meeting with Diokno to present its record of resolved consumer complaints, which it said would demonstrate its consistent enforcement of these protections.
It added that it remains open to continued engagement with legislators, civil society, and the public on strengthening consumer protection.
