Palace defends Epira, says it thwarts collusion
Communications Secretary Herminio Coloma: Not us, it’s the court. INQUIRER FILE PHOTO
MANILA, Philippines—Amid strong criticisms from militant groups, Malacañang defended the energy law saying that the energy law prevents collusion among power companies.
“We don’t want the unjust and opportunistic ways that have burdened our countrymen,” Secretary Herminio Coloma of the Presidential Communications Operations Office said Sunday in a radio interview.
Coloma noted that power utilities should have planned ahead since they should have the knowledge of the Malampaya shutdown.
On the issue of the Electric Power Industry Reform Act (Epira), Coloma said that it prevents collusion among electricity producers, especially if it would result in a sudden spike to the power rates.
Coloma underscored that the government still has the responsibility to safeguard its citizens from the unjust spikes in the power rate hike.
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