Social Welfare Secretary Rex Gatchalian has stated that the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) is not the cause of the recent surge in electricity bills from Meralco. He made this declaration amid public backlash against 4Ps beneficiaries.
"The claim that 4Ps caused the bill shock is false. The increase is due to Meralco's own rising generation expenses," Gatchalian explained during a recent televised interview.
He pointed out that households enrolled in the 4Ps program typically consume significantly less electricity than average residential or commercial customers.
Gatchalian emphasized that the average electricity consumption of 4Ps beneficiaries is minimal, often amounting to less than half a centavo contributing to lifeline rates.
Meralco Customer Base and 4Ps Participation
Currently, only 135,411 4Ps households are part of the Lifeline Rate Subsidy Program, a stark contrast to Meralco's 8.11 million total customers.
In light of the ongoing issues, Gatchalian expressed the DSWD's willingness to revisit the Expanded Lifeline Rate Law, suggesting that Meralco should absorb the costs instead of passing them on to consumers.
Given the significant charges by Meralco, they should absorb these rates as part of their corporate social responsibility.
Rex Gatchalian
Acknowledgment of Taxpayer Support
Gatchalian also took the opportunity to thank Filipino taxpayers for their continued support of social welfare programs, highlighting that these contributions are crucial for the sustainability of initiatives like 4Ps.
He noted that the program has significantly contributed to educational attainment among beneficiaries, with millions of individuals completing their studies due to financial support from 4Ps.
The goal is to reduce poverty incidence to single digits by 2028, and we are on track.
Rex Gatchalian