THE Pampanga Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Inc. (PamCham) is asking the San Fernando Electric Light and Power Co., Inc. (SFELAPCO) to extend the due date of their consumers' bills in the light of the enhanced community quarantine in Luzon.
In his letter to SFELAPCO vice-president and general manager Jose T. Lazatin, PamCham president Rene Romero said, “In light of the forced discontinuance of business operations as a result of the enhanced community quarantine now being implemented by the government to arrest the spread of the Covid-19 virus, many companies now face precarious cash flow positions, having prioritized workers' salaries and even the early release of the 13th month pay, in order to help their workers survive through this crisis we all contend with and endure.”
The financial burden is certainly not eased by pervading difficulties in collecting receivables from clients and limited bank transactions, Romero added.
“It is in this regard that we would like to request your office to consider extending the due date of electric bills to until after the lifting of the enhanced community quarantine and business operations are fully restored. The business community will gratefully appreciate your understanding and indulgence during this most difficult time,” he pleaded.
Major utilities in Pampanga like the City of San Fernando Water District and Pampanga II Electric Cooperative have so far heeded the call of PamCham and more are expected to follow suit as the quarantine period enters its second week. (JTD)