DS Suarez calls for lower power costs, questions NGCP’s franchise violations

MANILA, Philippines – Quezon 2nd District Representative and Deputy Speaker David “Jay-jay” Suarez has taken a firm stance in championing the Filipino people’s right to affordable electricity, calling attention to the National Grid Corporation of the Philippines’ (NGCP) alleged violations of its legislative franchise.

In a move to uphold accountability and transparency in the energy sector, Deputy Speaker Suarez initiated a motu proprio inquiry on December 23, 2024, to scrutinize NGCP’s performance and compliance with its obligations under its franchise.

Suarez emphasized that the soaring electricity costs faced by Filipinos alongside power outages in several islands in the Visayas cannot be resolved without addressing the inefficiencies and potential breaches by major players in the energy industry.

“The National Grid Corporation holds a critical responsibility in ensuring a reliable and cost-efficient transmission of electricity. Any violation of its franchise is a direct affront to the welfare of the Filipino people,” Deputy Speaker Suarez said.

The inquiry seeks to examine whether NGCP has met its mandated commitments, including infrastructure investments, grid reliability, and equitable pricing. These alleged violations come at a time when consumers are already grappling with the rising cost of living, making affordable energy a top priority for Deputy Speaker Suarez and his colleagues in Congress.

“As public servants, it is our duty to investigate and rectify these lapses that burden millions of households,” Suarez added.

Deputy Speaker Suarez stressed the urgency of addressing these issues, noting that delays in energy infrastructure development and inefficiencies in the transmission system contribute to higher electricity costs and power shortages.

“Our energy sector must serve the people—not profit-driven interests. This inquiry is only the beginning of a broader effort to ensure that every Filipino household can enjoy affordable, reliable electricity,” Suarez added.

The Deputy Speaker’s advocacy for lowering electricity costs aligns with his broader vision of fostering economic growth and uplifting the lives of ordinary Filipinos, a vision that is shared with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. By holding NGCP accountable and implementing reforms in the energy sector, Suarez aims to create a sustainable and equitable energy landscape for the Philippines, in support of the President’s efforts to improve the nation’s economy and ensure accessible energy for all.