Like most people, I was one of those who wasn’t pleased when our latest electricity bill arrived last December 2013. How can I…. our household usage remained the same but the rate increased to 20 percent compared to the previous month. Reason given was the increased charges imposed on Meralco by power generating companies as a result of the Malampaya shutdown. Whatever. It’s frustrating when all the saving on power, not using the aircon etc. doesn’t translate to a lower electric bill…if you know what we mean.
Imagine the relief when I, along with millions of customers, received a letter from Meralco yesterday signed by Senior Vice President and Head for Customer Retail Services Alfredo S. Panlilio.
The letter began: “In compliance with the Temporary Restraining Order (TRO) issued by the Supreme Court on December 23, we advise you to temporarily set aside your December 2013 bill.”
Yay! Instead, I was shown my old November 2013 bill (previously paid) which I will have to pay in lieu of the December one.
It was good that I didn’t pay our December 2013 bill yet out of dismay. The Supreme Court did a gallant act of sparing Filipino consumers from the unnecessary burden of higher electricity rates which is already one of the highest in the world. Activist groups like Bayan Muna, Gabriela and Alliance of Concerned Teachers deserve credit for petitioning the High Court on this matter.
Here’s what to do now:
1. Disregard your old December bill and instead pay the November billed amount as reflected in the revised Meralco bill sent this week. Go to the nearest Meralco business Center for this.
2. However, pay the amount indicated in your December 2013 bill if it’s lower than November’s.
3. There should be no problem if you choose to pay your old December 2013 bill in full or have already paid it. Any adjustments will be reflected in your subsequent billing/s.
For more information, contact the Meralco 24-hour hotline at 16211, any Meralco business centers or visit the website: meralco.com.ph
Read also our tips on how you can lower your electric bill