INQUIRER FILE
MANILA, Philippines — President Rodrigo Duterte has signed into law a bill enhancing the powers and functions of the Joint Congressional Energy Commission (JCEC).
Republic Act No. 11571, signed on July 6 but which copy was only released to the media on Wednesday, amends the Electric Power Industry Reform Act and provides that the JCEC shall exercise its oversight functions in the implementation of all existing energy laws.
Under the new law, the JCEC may conduct hearings and receive testimonies, reports, and technical advice; invite or summon any public official, private citizen, or any other person to testify before it or require any person to produce records or documents the body may require.
It shall be assisted by a secretariat to be composed of personnel who may be seconded from the Senate and the House of Representatives and may retain consultants.
The Commission shall be headed by an executive director who has sufficient background and competence on the policies and issues relating to electricity industry reforms.
To carry out its powers and functions, an initial amount of P25 million shall be charged against the current appropriations of the Senate. Any amount necessary for its continued operations shall be included in the annual General Appropriations Act.
The new law will take effect 15 days after its publication in the Official Gazette or in one newspaper in general circulation.