MABALACAT CITY -- As the workers nationwide observed Labor Day Wednesday, May 1, residents in this component city are complaining about their high electric bills, which started this billing month of April.

SunStar Pampanga learned that some consumers had as much as 100 to 600 percent increase in their monthly electric bills.

Maria Luisa Carvajal of Barangay Duquit said their average P60 bill per month has increased to P559.66 in their latest notice.

Another consumer, Reahlie Layag said that from P2,556 in March, her electric bill had soared to P5,066.17 in the last billing period.

Numerous consumers, who aired their complaints on social media, have described the electric bill increase as exorbitant and unjust.

The Pampanga 2 Electric Cooperative (Pelco 2) management stated in its Facebook account on April 27 that there will be an increase in electric bills this summer season.

"Ngayong tag-init, mapapansin natin na ang bill sa kuryente ay tumaas. Hindi lamang po tayo sa lalawigan ng Pampanga at Pelco 2 ang kasalukuyang nakakaranas nito," Pelco 2 stated.

There are many reasons why electric bills increase, according to the electric cooperative.

Some of them include the simultaneous usage of cooling appliances like air conditioners and electric fans, the usage of old appliances among others.

Pelco 2 also cited the increase in the price of electricity in the Wholesale Electricity Spot Market (WESM).

It added that the increase in the power rates is controlled by the WESM and not by any electric cooperative like Pelco 2.

The Pelco management also advised its consumers to visit the nearest area offices for any concerns and queries.