MINDANAO Development Authority (MinDA) Secretary Leo Tereso Magno welcomed calls for immediate amendment of the EPIRA Law to cut electricity costs, saying it is a plus for Mindanaoans.
President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., during his 5th State of the Nation Address (SONA), urged Congress to amend the Electric Power Industry Reform Act (EPIRA) of 2001.
Magno lauded the President’s directive to pursue amendments to the EPIRA Law to remove the burden of system loss charges from electricity consumers.
“For Mindanao, where affordable and reliable power remains essential to economic growth,” Magno said.
He stressed that the proposed reform further protects Filipino households and businesses from unnecessary costs while promoting a more equitable energy sector.
He stressed that reforms in the energy sector and tax relief will improve the lives of ordinary Filipinos.
With Mindanao being a vital contributor to the nation’s food security, energy future, trade, and investment, Magno said the continued focus on infrastructure, investment promotion, and regional connectivity creates greater opportunities for Mindanao to realize its full economic potential.
“The Mindanao Development Authority stands ready to work closely with all government agencies, local government units, development partners, and the private sector in translating these national priorities into concrete programs and lasting benefits for every Mindanawon,” Magno said.
During his SONA on Monday, Marcos Jr. demanded to prohibit the passing on of system loss charges to electricity consumers, including the corresponding value-added tax (VAT).
“At kung pagbawas ng presyo ang usapan, sa aking palagay panahon na para tanggalin na natin ang system loss na pinapasa sa consumer,” he said.
“Pinapasa ito sa consumer at kinakarga sa bill na pinapatungan pa ng value-added tax. Hindi naman kasalanan ng consumer kung bakit nagkaroon ng system loss. Kaya hindi naman tama na kailangan sila pa ang pagbabayarin dito,” the President added.
The proposed “Sariling Kuryente” Act was also pushed to simplify installing solar panels and battery storage systems in homes, allowing more families to be energy-sufficient with a reduced cost.
