Iloilo City has most affordable electricity – study

By Francis Allan L. Angelo

Iloilo City, energized by MORE Power, now boasts the distinction of having the lowest electricity rates among major Philippine cities, as reported by the Institute of Contemporary Economics.

With a notable rate of P10.30 per kilowatt-hour (kWh), Iloilo stands out in contrast to Metro Manila’s P10.95, Cebu City’s P11.28, and Bacolod City’s P11.95 per kWh, offering a competitive edge for investment and business development.

In a statement, MORE Power said the achievement reflects its focused efforts “in sustaining affordability and reliability in its service provision, fostering not only residential satisfaction but also economic vigor within the region.”

The implications of these competitive rates extend beyond cost savings for households, promising to invigorate the local economy by drawing in businesses and fostering an environment conducive to innovation and progress.

Mayor Jerry P. Treñas expressed his gratitude, saying, “Having the lowest electricity rate…is a big boost to Iloilo City in terms of opening more investments…This is also a very welcome development for every Ilonggo household…I am thankful to MORE Power for…their commitment to always advance the welfare of our residents.”

Emil Diez, president of the Iloilo Business Club, noted that under MORE Power, “the services provided by our distributor have improved, especially in terms of announcements, handling customer concerns, and vital infrastructure upgrades.”

Diez added that the transformation has had a tangible impact on the local business landscape, effectively lowering operational costs and fostering a fertile environment for growth and investment.

“Lower electricity rates translate to reduced operational costs for businesses, thereby fostering an environment conducive to growth and attracting potential investors.”

The business club remains committed to supporting initiatives that promote the economic prosperity and sustainable development of Iloilo City. They express optimism about future enhancements and the continued leadership of MORE Power in the region’s energy sector​​.

The Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry – Iloilo Chapter, Inc. (PCCI-Iloilo) and the Iloilo Economic Development Foundation Inc. (ILED) also commended MORE Power’s pivotal role in the city’s economic narrative.

Both organizations acknowledged the utility’s efforts in powering Iloilo’s growth trajectory, emphasizing that accessible electricity is a cornerstone for robust economic activity and improved living standards.

The PCCI-Iloilo, recognizing the tangible benefits brought by MORE Power’s service, reiterated its support for inclusive business innovations that enrich the lives of Ilonggos.

“The provision of affordable electricity is crucial for the city’s development, benefiting not only commercial establishments but also enhancing the lives of every Ilonggo,” lauded the chamber in an official statement.

ILED echoed this sentiment, with chairman Engineer Terence Uygongco underscoring that affordable and reliable electricity is “instrumental in driving the economic development of Iloilo City.”