The Management Association of the Philippines (MAP) has expressed its support for Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) chair Monalisa Dimalanta, despite her recent suspension by the Ombudsman.

In a statement, MAP elaborated that this temporary suspension would affect the energy sector and consumers as it could disrupt delay approvals of crucial permits, licenses, decisions on pending cases as well as energy reforms.

For the business group, these initiatives are necessary to make the Philippines’ energy sector more competitive with neighboring nations, invite more investments in infrastructure and job creation, and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

They also said that her work in addressing the lengthy challenges in the energy sector, as well as streamlining the regulatory system amid power constraints should be considered, stating that this “manifest a strong sense of objectivity and fairness in the pursuit of the common good.”

“In several occasions in the past when Chair Dimalanta agreed to discuss with us the plans, programs and achievements of the ERC, we were deeply impressed with her professionalism and palpable commitment to improve the country’s energy sector,” MAP said.

Being witness of the ERC Chair’s work, the business association believed that Dimalanta upheld the regulatory commission’s principles.

According to MAP, the ERC had welcomed a promulgation issued in 2022 wherein energy consumers can be producers or “producers-sumers."

“It provided for a much simplified permitting process that streamlined previous tedious selection procedures, thereby facilitating off-grid rural electrification with renewable energy,” they explained.

Earlier this month, Dimalanta was ordered to a six-month preventive suspension due to a filed complaint by the National Association of Electricity Consumers for Reforms Inc. (Nasecore).

This stemmed from Dimalanta allegedly permitting the Manila Electric Co. (Meralco) to purchase electricity from the Wholesale Electricity Spot Market (WESM) and transfer the costs to consumers without necessary approval from the ERC.

“The country needs a fully functional ERC, led by a competent and dedicated Chair like Chair Dimalanta who has demonstrated not only integrity and dedication, but also innovativeness and courage to make bold and prompt decisions, in order to ensure timely and successful achievement of these goals,” MAP emphasized.