Senator Erwin Tulfo warns power firms against exploiting Super El Niño

Senator Erwin Tulfo on Monday (October 12, 2026) warned power generation companies and distribution utilities against imposing unjustified electricity rate increases or providing poor service amid forecasts of a “Super El Niño” that could trigger higher power costs and rolling blackouts.

Tulfo, chairperson of the Senate Committee on Energy, issued the warning after the Department of Energy (DOE) and several electric distribution utilities cautioned consumers about possible electricity price increases and power interruptions.

While acknowledging that electricity rates could fluctuate because of supply and demand, Tulfo said any adjustments must be justified and reasonable, given the financial pressures already facing Filipino households.

“While rate adjustments are expected due to supply and demand dynamics, any price increase must remain fair and reasonable. It should not worsen the financial burden already felt by Filipino families on a daily basis,” Tulfo said.

“I will not hesitate to exercise oversight functions if power generation companies or distribution utilities exploit the climate crisis to maximize profits,” he added.

The senator called on the DOE and the Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) to strengthen consumer protection measures against excessive pricing and potential power shortages as the country prepares for the climate phenomenon.

He stressed that energy companies must prioritize public welfare and operate transparently, warning that his committee would hold accountable those found abusing the market at consumers’ expense.

"The public deserves transparency and fairness. As the country braces for this climate phenomenon, the energy sector must prioritize public welfare over excessive corporate gains. The Committee on Energy will hold accountable anyone attempting to abuse the market at the expense of ordinary Filipino consumers," Tulfo said.

“We cannot just sit back, monitor, and watch power rates skyrocket while our consumers suffer the heat and economic burden of a Super El Niño," he added.

Tulfo also urged the DOE and ERC to accelerate concrete measures to mitigate the anticipated effects of El Niño, including safeguards to maintain stable electricity supply and prevent artificial shortages that could be used to justify higher rates.

While noting that the House of Representatives had approved funding in the proposed 2027 General Appropriations Bill for the expansion of sitio electrification programs, Tulfo said budgetary allocations alone would not be enough without coordinated action from executive agencies to address the situation on the ground.

The Department of Science and Technology’s Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) expects El Niño to intensify into a Very Strong El Niño during the September to December 2026 period and persist through the first half of 2027. -Paraluman News