The Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) on Thursday, October 29, ordered power distributors to stop disconnecting households with low energy consumption until the end of 2020.

The advisory covers consumers with monthly consumption “not higher than twice the ERC-approved maximum lifeline consumption level” or 200 kilowatts per hour (200 kWh).

Other customers, meawhile, will get a 30-day grace period for bills falling within the enhanced community quarantine (ECQ) and the modified ECQ. After the lapse of the grace period, customers can pay their bills in 3 equal monthly installments without interest and other charges.

“Customers who have the ability to pay are encouraged to settle their bills within the original due date to help manage the cash flow in the energy supply chain and ensure the continuous supply of electricity,” the ERC said.

The ERC added that distribution utility companies “may offer less onerous payment terms to encourage early payments.”

Government offices are not covered by the advisory.

The new advisory extends the payment deadline for electricity consumers, given the revived directive under the Bayanihan to Recover as One Act. The new policy is effective immediately.

Before this, the Manila Electric Company, the biggest power distributor in the Philippines, allowed consumers to settle unpaid bills until October 31 under the Bayanihan to Heal as One Act. – Rappler.com