THE Lifeline Rate Subsidy Program (LRSP) is launched in Guimbal, Iloilo province. (Tara Yap)
ILOILO CITY – Almost 150,000 poor families in Western Visayas region can avail of free electricity under the Lifeline Rate Subsidy Program (LRSP).
Under the LRSP, families consuming 50 kilowatt hours (kWh) or less per month are entitled to 100 percent free electricity.
The Department of Energy and Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) designed LRSP mainly for Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) beneficiaries of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD).
DOE Secretary Sharon S. Garin said during the March 6 national launching in her hometown of Guimbal in Iloilo province that LRSP can further help 4Ps families.
Garin said 4Ps families can realign their budget intended for electricity bills into other essentials, including medical and educational expenses for their children.
DSWD-6 Regional Director Joselito Estember said there are currently 149,896 families registered as 4Ps beneficiaries in Aklan, Antique, Capiz, Guimaras, and Iloilo provinces as well as the capital Iloilo City.
Also present during the launching were DOE Undersecretary Mylene Capongcol, ERC Chairman Francis Saturnino, DSWD Assistant Secretary Marites Maristela, and Mayor Jennifer Garin-Colada.
A separate event was also held in Iloilo City.