Manila Electric Co. (Meralco) will extend the period of “no disconnection” until the end of October for consumers who have not settled their unpaid bills amid the coronavirus disease pandemic.

Meralco president and CEO Ray Espinosa made the announcement during the House Committee on Good Government and Public Accountability’s hearing on the sudden spike in electricity rates during the enhanced community quarantine (ECQ) period.

“Ie-extend ko yung suspension ng disconnection hanggang end of October, para mas mabigyan ng panahon ang ating mga customers na makalikom ng sapat na pambayad sa kanilang mga bills (I will extend the suspension of disconnection until end of October to give more time for our customers to find more funds to pay their bills),” Espinosa said.

The initial “no disconnection” of service period was until September 30 for consumers’ unpaid balances.

Espinosa said they would also provide relief worth around PHP101 million to 2.77 million “lifeline” customers, or those who consume 100 kilowatts per hour and below.

“Makakatanggap sila ng diskwento sa kanilang distribution charge equivalent to a total of PHP101 million. Yan ay ibibigay natin as an additional credit sa kanilang bills na darating (They will be receiving a discount in their distribution charge equivalent to a total of PHP101 million. That will be given as an additional credit in their incoming bills),” he added. (PNA)