Meralco rates rise in March

As motorists reel from higher gas prices, households in Metro Manila will soon face the first wave of summer electricity rate hikes.

- By GABRIELL CHRISTEL GALANG

Manila Electric Co. (Meralco) announced that electricity rates have gone up by ₱0.6427 per kilowatt-hour (kWh) in March to 7 ₱13.8161/kWh.

This means that an average 200-kWh household consumer may see their bills increase by ₱129 this month.According to Joe Zaldarriaga, Meralco vice president and spokesperson, March marks the beginning of higher power demand, as consumers begin to feel the heat of the summer season.

"We are entering a period when demand for electricity traditionally peaks, and external factors are adding pressure to energy costs," he said. "By embracing energy efficiency, consumers can have better control over their electricity bills and at the same time contribute to mitigating the impact of external factors on electricity costs."