Power distributor Meralco earlier this week announced that they will be delaying the disconnection of power for households consuming 200 kWh and below each month, with unsettled bills until the end of next month.
President and CEO Atty. Ray Espinosa confirmed the postponement, noting its benefit to over 3 million customers, nearly half their customer base.
Last October, the Energy Regulatory Commission disallowed disconnection by power companies especially to “lifeline” clients, who pay lower rates than do bigger clients.
Meralco has repeatedly delayed their disconnection policy in the past months, first until August, in light of customers’ financial difficulties.
The moratorium stretched until Oct. 31, while the most recent deadline for power disconnection deferment was on Dec. 31.