An opinion piece in BusinessWorld argues that many groups and individuals are attacking Meralco and other private distribution utilities over electricity rate increases based on emotion and political sensationalism rather than data. The article notes that Meralco rates have remained flat while fuel prices have risen due to the Middle East war.
The author contends that the main driver of higher electricity costs is the increase in fuel prices caused by geopolitical tensions, which directly raises generation charges passed on to consumers. The piece criticizes the lack of factual basis in public criticisms, urging a more rational discussion supported by data.
While acknowledging public frustration over bills, the opinion piece underscores that distribution utilities like Meralco have not raised their own rates, and that the real cost driver lies in global fuel markets. It calls for moving away from political sensationalism to address the actual factors behind electricity pricing.