By Francis Allan L. Angelo
Consumer group BNB 101 Association, Inc., also known as Bantay ng Bayan 101, is urging first district Representative Janette Garin and local officials to push for the expansion of MORE Electric and Power Corporation (MORE Power) into the district.
In a resolution passed on February 7, 2025, the group emphasized the need for better service and lower electricity rates, citing concerns over high power costs and service inefficiencies under Iloilo Electric Cooperative 1 (ILECO 1).
“We, the consumers of the 1st District, deserve the same access to affordable and reliable electricity as other areas now served by MORE Power,” said Warren Biones, municipal leader of Tigbauan and spokesperson for BNB 101.
MORE Power was granted an expanded franchise under Republic Act 11918, which took effect in August 2022, allowing it to operate in 15 municipalities apart from its base in Iloilo City.
The expansion area includes Alimodian, Leganes, Leon, New Lucena, Pavia, San Miguel, Santa Barbara, and Zarraga in the second district, and Anilao, Banate, Barotac Nuevo, Dingle, Dueñas, Dumangas, San Enrique, and Passi City in the fourth district.
However, the first congressional district was not included in the expansion areas.
“The rate of MORE Power for residential consumers and the generation charge has consistently been lower than ILECO 1,” Biones said. “It is unfair that we are left out when many of us are struggling with high electricity costs.”
The Supreme Court recently upheld the constitutionality of MORE Power’s expansion, ruling that ILECO’s franchise is not exclusive, opening the door for potential competition in Iloilo’s power distribution.
“With the Supreme Court’s ruling, it is clear that MORE Power can expand its services. The question now is: Why should the first District be left behind?” Biones added.
Municipal leaders from Tigbauan, San Joaquin, Guimbal, Miag-ao, Oton, Igbaras, and Tubungan signed the resolution, demonstrating broad public support for MORE Power’s entry into the district.
“This is not just about lowering electricity bills, it’s about giving consumers a choice. Right now, we don’t have a choice. If we see a company offering better rates and service, why shouldn’t we be allowed to avail of it?” Biones said.
The resolution formally requests Rep. Garin and local officials to explore legal options to include the first district in MORE Power’s franchise area.
“We are calling on our leaders to act on this. Our communities need real solutions to our energy problems, and expanding MORE Power’s service to our district is a step in the right direction,” Biones said.
Copies of the resolution have been submitted to the relevant government offices for consideration.
