CITY OF SAN FERNANDO The Sangguniang Panlungsod of this component city has launched an inquiry on the impending increase in the power rate of San Fernando Electric Light and Power Company (SFELAPCO).

The legislative inquiry was led by Councilor Ayzel Mari-Grace N. Macalino together with other members of the city council.

The move is aimed to clarify the reason behind SFELAPCO’s rate hike of up to 50% starting on the February billing cycle.

The said session was attended by representatives from SFELAPCO, members of Pampanga Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PAMCHAM) and the city’s Multi-Sectoral Governance Committee (MSGC).

During the inquiry, SFELAPCO representatives explained the increase in their charges is due to the continuous rise of imported coal prices in the global market.

It was also disclosed that the expiration of SFELAPCO’s contract with its generating company was also a factor in the power rate hike.

Macalino assailed SFELAPCO’s alleged lack of consultation with its consumers prior to announcement of rate adjustments.

“Nung sinabihan niyo kami na kayo ng singil, parang wala na kaming magagawa at kailangan nalang namin tanggapin which is very unfair on the part of the people,” she said.

The power provider executives responded by saying they conducted information dissemination such as notice attached on monthly bills and regular postings on their social media pages.

The SP inquiry came after Mayor Vilma Caluag expressed opposition to the power rate hike.

The inquiry was supported by the city’s Association of Barangay Captains and MSGC.