Senior Citizen Party-list Rep. Rodolfo "Ompong" Ordanes has described as "unacceptable" the apparent non-action of Batangas II Electric Cooperative (BATELEC II) on the proposed partnership with the Manila Electric Company (Meralco)--something that would have brought major relief to elder residents.

"I deeply feel for our Batangueño senior citizens who have endured so much because of the persistent power outages affecting their communities," Ordanes, senior vice chairman of House Committee on Senior Citizens, said on Tuesday, March 3.

Recently, the Batangas provincial government told BATELEC II to explain the years-long delay in acting on a proposed joint venture with Meralco. This, even as local folk and businesses slammed the recurring power outages in the province.

"Three years have passed since Meralco submitted its joint venture proposal, yet there has been no action from BATELEC II. The prolonged inaction is unacceptable," reckoned Ordanes.

According to him, power interruptions adversely affect everyone, but especially senior citizens, who may be grappling with serious health conditions.

"It is heartbreaking to learn that Batangueño senior citizens continue to suffer through unstable power service when viable solutions are already on the table," Ordanes said.

"Seniors are among the most vulnerable when electricity becomes unreliable. We rely on proper ventilation, particularly during periods of extreme heat, and many depend on electricity to power essential medical equipment," he noted.

Ordanes says consistent electricity is a "lifeline" for those managing serious or life‑threatening conditions.

"I stand with the officials of Batangas province in urgently calling on BATELEC II to address the recurring power outages and to put an end to the hardship experienced by residents, most especially the elderly who deserve safety, comfort and dignity," the ranking congressman further said.

Meralco's coverage includes Metro Manila, where it is the sole electricity distributor, as well as some nearby provinces, like Bulacan, Cavite, Laguna, Batangas, Rizal, and Quezon.