Why Electricity Prices Are High in the Philippines Part 1 | Atty. Monalisa Dimalanta on Power Rates

Why are electricity prices in the Philippines so high? In Part 1 of this discussion, Atty. Monalisa Dimalanta, former Chairperson of the Energy Regulatory Commission, explains the key issues behind Philippine electricity prices. This first part covers the lack of broad government subsidy, privatization under EPIRA, competition in the power sector, VAT on electricity, renewable energy, bill deposits, and consumer concerns about disconnection. This episode helps Filipino consumers, households, and business owners understand why power rates feel heavy, what the “true cost of electricity” means, and what policy options may affect electricity bills in the future. Topics discussed in Part 1: • Why Philippine electricity prices are generally not subsidized • Why power generation and delivery are private-sector driven • Competition in the generation and supply sectors • Market concentration and market power • VAT on electricity and possible policy changes • Renewable energy and zero-rated VAT • Meralco bill deposit and refund concerns • Disconnection notices and consumer protection issues This is Part 1 of our discussion on Philippine electricity prices and consumer concerns.