The Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) is gearing up its strategic agenda for 2026 to strengthen consumer protection, modernize regulatory processes, address backlogs, and promote a more competitive electric power industry, while boosting investor confidence.
“The New ERC stands for greater transparency, stronger public engagement, and a deeper commitment to consumer welfare,” ERC Chairperson and CEO Atty. Francis Saturnino Juan said.
“The New ERC stands for greater transparency, stronger public engagement, and a deeper commitment to consumer welfare.”
As the ERC moves into 2026, Juan underscores that his vision is focused on developing a future-ready Commission with people-centered service.
“Our five major directions for the New ERC include fair and evidence-based rate setting; timely resolution of pending cases; robust market oversight; creation of a stable and enhanced regulatory environment; and proactive, consumer-focused leadership,” he
said.
In line with these priorities, the Commission will enforce least-cost obligations, complete the long delayed regulatory resets for distribution utilities, and set prices for emerging technologies such as offshore wind and liquefied natural gas.
Aside from these, streamlined hearings and internal processes, alongside adherence to Energy Virtual One-Stop-Shop (EVOSS) and Ease of Doing Business (EODB) laws will support faster case resolutions. In addition, market rules and technical standards are being updated to accommodate new technologies, while investment approvals for utilities, Power Supply Agreement (PSAs), and renewable energy (RE) projects will be expedited.
Juan emphasized that consumer welfare remains a top priority.
“Transparency, consumer protection, and fairness are the pillars of our work.”
“Transparency, consumer protection, and fairness are the pillars of our work,” he pointed out.
The ERC plans to expand subsidies for lifeline consumers and senior citizens, enhance consumer rights under the Magna Carta for Consumers of Electricity, improve rules on metering and net metering, and coordinate with the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) to ensure fair application of Value added tax (VAT) and subsidies.
The Commission highlighted that an informed public is critical to a healthy energy market. Through this initiative, accurate reporting, consumers and businesses can have confidence that their regulators are working to ensure reliable, fair, and affordable electricity.
The ERC oversees an industry valued at approximately P4.13 trillion, covering generation, transmission, distribution, supply, and market operations nationwide.
Beyond its size, the electricity system powers hospitals, industries, schools, homes, and the digital economy, underscoring the importance of compliance, governance, and
disciplined execution.
As the Commission looks forward to 2026, it reaffirmed its commitment to transparency, clear communication, and regulatory excellence, aiming to empower consumers while fostering a competitive and sustainable energy sector.
“Accurate information is a responsibility we share—and together, we can build a future that is fair, transparent, and truly felt by every Filipino,” Juan concluded.
