Iloilo City utility refunds P1.5M in bill deposits

By Rjay Zuriaga Castor

MORE Electric and Power Corporation (MORE Power), Iloilo City’s electricity provider, has reportedly returned P1.5 million in bill deposit refunds to customers who have consistently paid their electricity bills on time.

Since June 2023, at least 476 customers have benefited from this refund initiative.

Client Maria Monica Pinzon reacted positively to the unexpected news, “I was surprised to receive a call from MORE about these kinds of refunds. It feels like a reward for diligently paying our bills.”

Ervin Sucgang shared this appreciation, highlighting the impact of such efforts on easing the financial burdens of households.

“Hopefully, such opportunities to assist consumers of MORE Power will continue,” he remarked.

Mary Glyn V. Palagao said the refund would help with future expenses.

“I’m delighted to have received the Bill Deposit Refund from MORE Power. I plan to use it towards my next bill payment, which is a significant help for me,” she expressed.

MORE Power’s analysis suggests nearly a thousand of their Iloilo City customers qualify for the bill deposit return, but not all have begun the claim process.

The company has taken steps to inform eligible customers, using account statements and direct communication such as calls and texts to notify them of their rights.

Ma. Cristina Cabalhin, Vice President for Customer Care at MORE Power, assures that efforts are underway to ensure all eligible customers are informed about their right to a refund.

“We are committed to facilitating this process and ensuring our customers receive the benefits due to them,” she stated.

This initiative aligns with the Energy Regulatory Commission’s mandate under the Magna Carta for Residential Electricity Consumers, which requires distribution utilities to refund bill deposits after three years of consistent payments and no service disconnections.