ERC denies red tape is cause of Occidental Mindoro’s power woes
THE ENERGY Regulatory Commission (ERC) has denied that the ongoing power crisis in Occidental Mindoro is due to red tape on its part.
“The ERC has always been mindful of its responsibility to timely act on applications filed before it to ensure continuous supply of electricity to consumers. We, therefore, regret the statements made that ERC is to be blamed for the power crisis in the Province of Occidental Mindoro,” ERC Chairperson Monalisa C. Dimalanta said in a statement on Thursday.
The ERC’s statement was in response to claims by Occidental Mindoro Electric Cooperative, Inc. President Eleanor S. Costibolo that the longstanding power crisis in the province should be blamed on the regulatory agency’s bureaucratic procedures.
Ms. Dimalanta said the ERC has been prioritizing the resolution of pending issues of parties concerned.
ERC said that it has been diligent in facilitating the issuance of certificates of compliance or provisional authorities to operate to generation companies in the province.
“In fact, the Commission has been closely coordinating with all concerned stakeholders, particularly with Occidental Mindoro Consolidated Power Corp.,” the ERC said.
On Feb. 28, the House energy committee conducted a hearing on the province’s power woes based on a resolution filed by Occidental Mindoro Rep. Leody F. Tarriela. — Ashley Erika O. Jose
