Two newly appointed commissioners of the Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) are expected to promote and protect the welfare of consumers during this challenging period, Malacañang said Monday.
Presidential spokesman Harry Roque has confirmed the appointment of Floresinda Baldo-Digal and Marko Romeo L. Fuentes as new members of the ERC.
Prior to the appointment, Baldo-Digal, a lawyer, served as executive director and spokesperson of the ERC. Fuentes was appointed member of the Philippine Regulatory Board of Accountancy in 2018.
"We hope the appointment of Ms. Digal and Mr. Fuentes will promote and protect the interests of ordinary power consumers especially in this challenging time,” Roque said.
"We wish the newest members of the ERC all the best in their new assignment,” he added.
The appointment of the two ERC commissioners comes amid the mounting consumer complaints against Manila Electric Co. (Meralco) for allegedly charging shockingly high power bills during quarantine period.
The commission has disclosed plans to ask the company to refund any excessive rates charged to consumers while the country was placed under strict lockdown last March.