Wazzup Pilipinas!?
In 2001, the Philippine government passed the Electric Power Industry Reform Act (EPIRA) with grand promises: affordable electricity, improved efficiency, and a competitive power sector. Over two decades later, the reality is far more complex. While some improvements have been made, the overarching goal of providing affordable and equitable electricity remains elusive. In "Saan Umabot ang Bente Mo: EPIRA 20 Years After", the analysis uncovers the intricate web of politics, corporate dominance, and unfulfilled promises that continue to define the Philippine power sector.
The High Cost of Privatization
At the heart of EPIRA was the idea that privatizing state-owned assets would bring competition, lower costs, and improve service. However, the outcome has been starkly different. The Philippines now has one of the highest electricity rates in Southeast Asia, second only to Singapore
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Privatization has shifted control of power generation, transmission, and distribution into the hands of a few influential conglomerates, reinforcing an oligopolistic structure. Despite promises of competitive pricing, power remains a costly burden, particularly for low-income households.
Power and Profit: Who Really Benefits?
The book dives into how the power sector has become a cash cow for the elite few. It traces ownership transitions from state control under the Marcos regime to private oligarchies under Aquino, Ramos, and Arroyo administrations.
Key Players: Prominent families such as Lopez, Aboitiz, Sy, Consunji, and Pangilinan now dominate the industry.
Onerous Contracts: During President Ramos' term, Independent Power Producers (IPPs) were given "take-or-pay" contracts that guaranteed payments regardless of actual electricity consumption. This resulted in massive debts for the National Power Corporation (NPC).
The EPIRA law, instead of breaking monopolies, has facilitated the rise of power giants who prioritize profits over public welfare.
The Transmission Monopoly: NGCP
The privatization of the National Grid Corporation of the Philippines (NGCP) is another critical chapter in EPIRA's legacy. The grid, considered the "crown jewel" of the power sector, was handed to a consortium led by Chinese state-owned State Grid Corporation of China and local conglomerates led by Enrique Razon and Robert Coyiuto.
While privatization was supposed to improve infrastructure, it has raised significant concerns about transparency, national security, and accountability.
Energy Injustice: Who Bears the Brunt?
The analysis paints a stark picture of energy poverty, where millions of Filipinos still lack reliable electricity access. Rural and far-flung communities remain underserved, and subsidies intended to address these gaps often fall short.
In Barangay Pamilacan, Bohol, solar installations have transformed lives by creating jobs and raising incomes.
However, such success stories remain isolated, and systemic issues continue to block widespread change.
The report highlights that energy injustice perpetuates economic inequality, with the bottom 40% of Filipinos holding as much income share as the top 1%.
Regulatory Capture and Governance Failures
EPIRA created institutions like the Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) and the Power Sector Assets and Liabilities Management Corporation (PSALM) to oversee the power sector. However, these agencies have often been plagued by inefficiency, corruption, and regulatory capture.
The debts inherited by PSALM from NPC continue to be a heavy financial burden.
The ERC has been criticized for its lack of transparency and for favoring corporate interests over consumer welfare.
The Just Energy Transition: A Way Forward
Amidst the failures, the call for a Just Energy Transition resonates strongly. The transition to renewable energy is not just about sustainability but also about equity and inclusivity.
Renewable energy projects like solar farms and microgrids have shown promise.
Decentralizing power production and empowering electric cooperatives are seen as crucial steps.
The book emphasizes that the energy transition must prioritize people's needs over corporate profits.
Conclusion: The Road Ahead
The findings in "Saan Umabot ang Bente Mo: EPIRA 20 Years After" are a wake-up call for policymakers, industry leaders, and citizens. EPIRA, while founded on noble intentions, has largely failed in its mission to deliver affordable, reliable electricity to all Filipinos.
Moving forward, the country must:
Strengthen Regulatory Oversight: Ensure that agencies like ERC and PSALM operate transparently and independently.
Empower Local Communities: Invest in decentralized renewable energy systems.
Hold Industry Players Accountable: Demand fairness and accountability from corporate giants.
The promise of a just, equitable, and sustainable energy future is still achievable — but only if decisive, collective action is taken.
"Sunshine is the best disinfectant," the book reminds us. As Filipinos face rising electricity bills and persistent energy poverty, transparency, accountability, and public participation will be key in driving the change the country desperately needs.
The time for reform is now. The power is in our hands.
Ross is known as the Pambansang Blogger ng Pilipinas - An Information and Communication Technology (ICT) Professional by profession and a Social Media Evangelist by heart.
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