4P’s beneficiaries, low-income earners urged to apply power subsidy program

The subsidy program under Republic Act No. 11552, provides a discount on electricity bills of qualified marginalized or low-income customers whose monthly electricity consumption does not exceed 100KWH. 

CSWDO Welfare Program Focal Person Lynmar Podador said that those who are already in the list of Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4P’s) beneficiaries are qualified for the program and can avail discounts from the DLPC. Others who are not in the 4P’s may still avail themselves of the power subsidy as long as they get certified as indigent or low-income by the CSWDO. 

Fermin Edillon, Head DLPC’s Reputation Enhancement Department, said all DLPC customers whose monthly electricity consumption fall below 100KWH used to be the default beneficiaries of the program when it was implemented in September 2023. However, it was found out that not all those who consume less than 100kwh are from marginalized or low-income groups. 

“Nakita man gud na daghan nakaapil na dapat dili … For example, naa kay condo na wala nimo gigamit, igo lang ka nag-invest ug wa nimo giparentahan so ang konsumo minimal kayo,” Fermin said in a report from the City Information Office (CIO).

“Nakita nila na mas nindot unta na ihatag ni siya didto sa gyud sa mga rightful beneficiaries. Kadtong sa mga nagkalisod gyud. Mao tong naay bagong guidelines,” he said.

This is why the DLPC has partnered with the CSWDO, the Department of Social Welfare and Development, and the Energy Regulatory Commission to ensure that the power subsidy will benefit those most in need.

To qualify for the Lifeline Rate subsidy program, applicants must provide a proof of billing from the DLPC, a valid ID, a duly-filled application form, and proof of being a 4P’s beneficiaries or certification from CSWDO validating the applicant’s low-income or indigent status. 

Renters can also avail themselves of the subsidy as long they secure certification from the owner of their dwelling. 

Around 3,000 DLPC customers have availed themselves of the subsidy this year. Some 65,000 DLPC customers can apply for the lifeline rate power subsidy.

“Amo gyud gina-awhag tanan na mag-avail ani kay sayang man gud. Gihatag man gud ni sa gobyerno. It is a program sa government na makatabang sa atong mga kaigsoonan,” Fermin said.