Electricity Bills May Climb Even Higher as VP Sara Sounds El Niño Warning
SARA DUTERTE – With electricity prices already burdening many households, VP Sara Duterte has cautioned the public to prepare for another possible increase linked to the effects of El Niño.
Vice President Sara Duterte has urged Filipinos to prepare for the possible effects of El Niño, warning that the weather phenomenon could further increase electricity bills amid already high power costs in the country.
Duterte raised the concern during an interview on the sidelines of the 52nd Philippine Business Conference and Expo organized by the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry at the Manila Hotel.
“Ang mataas na kuryente ay hindi lang yan ngayon. Pwede ding epekto yan ng El Niño na mas tataas pa yung ating bill sa kuryente,” Duterte said, cautioning consumers about the potential financial burden of higher electricity rates.
The vice president was asked to comment on President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr.’s apparent regret over the decision not to operate the Bataan Nuclear Power Plant, particularly as electricity prices continue to rise.
Duterte reiterated her warning about the possible impact of El Niño on household expenses, emphasizing that electricity costs could climb further depending on the situation.
“Ang mataas na kuryente ay hindi lang ‘yan ngayon. Pwede rin epekto ‘yan ng El Niño na mas mataas pa ‘yung ating bill sa kuryente,” she added.
Beyond the potential effects of the weather phenomenon, Duterte also questioned the Marcos administration’s intentions regarding the proposed revival of the Bataan Nuclear Power Plant.
According to the vice president, she believes the administration never seriously intended to reactivate the facility, pointing to the absence of a legal framework that would allow the country to use nuclear energy.
The nuclear power plant has again become a subject of discussion amid concerns over the country’s electricity prices and the possibility of exploring alternative energy sources to address power supply and affordability.
Duterte also compared Marcos’ remarks about the nuclear facility with his campaign promise to reduce the price of rice to P20 per kilogram.
She described the rice price commitment as a form of deception and misleading assurance to the public, drawing a parallel between the promise and the administration’s position on the power plant.
Her statements come as consumers continue to face concerns over the cost of necessities and utilities. The possibility of higher electricity bills during El Niño could add pressure on households and businesses already managing rising expenses.
Duterte’s warning underscores the need for the public to prepare for potential increases in electricity costs, although the actual impact will depend on prevailing energy conditions and other factors affecting power rates.
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