MANILA, Philippines -- (UPDATE 2) President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo has appointed former Pampanga representative Zenaida Ducut, a close ally and townmate, acting chairperson of the Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC), Press Secretary Jess Dureza announced Thursday.

Ducut, current deputy chief presidential legal counsel, replaces Rodolfo Albano, who retired Wednesday.

The President thanked Albano for his "exemplary service to the nation."

Ducut will serve for a fixed term of seven years the post at the quasi-judicial body that oversees the implementation of the Energy Power Industry Reform Act (EPIRA) and other regulations related to the power industry.

The ERC also holds the power to decide on petitions for rate increases, including that of Manila Electric Company (Meralco).

Ducut, who hails from Lubao, practiced law, mainly in San Fernando, Pampanga, as branch clerk of court in 1983, and research attorney and prosecuting fiscal in 1986.

She started her political career in 1992 when she was elected councilor of Lubao, then congresswoman from 1995 until 2004.

In 2004, she endorsed the candidacy of Arroyo's son, Juan Miguel, to a seat in Congress.

Ducut was one of three nominees considered for the position. The others are corporate counsel and former Ateneo law professor Alberto Agra and Lanao del Norte Representative Alipio Cirilo Badelles.