PHSenate President Sherwin Gatchalian called for the Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) to audit 'pass-through' costs—fees added to energy bills based on utility companies' production and delivery expenses. He argued that these costs are often excessive and that the ERC currently lacks the authority to check them, leaving consumers and the government 'blind' to the true cost. During a Senate energy panel hearing, Gatchalian criticized the ERC for not thoroughly verifying fuel pass-through charges, while ERC Chairperson Saturnino Juan acknowledged the need for improved auditing processes. Senator Erwin Tulfo also questioned the ERC's lack of oversight, suggesting that even without full powers, the agency could have informed the public about potential abuses in electricity pricing.
Bias read (Progressive): The article frames the issue as a failure of regulatory oversight, emphasizing the need for stronger accountability from the ERC. The language highlights concerns about corporate profiteering and calls for greater transparency, which aligns with progressive advocacy for consumer protection and anti-
