Screengrab from Rep. Zaldy Co

During a recent budget hearing with the Department of Energy (DOE), Rep. Zaldy Co made a passionate appeal to focus on practical and straightforward solutions to reduce electricity costs in the Philippines. According to him, the key to lowering electricity rates lies in regulating our energy sources better and making our systems more efficient.

Rep. Co emphasized the need for speed in implementing these measures. "Once a bid comes in at a lower price, say around 4.50 or 4.00 pesos, we shouldn’t delay it for two or even five years," he said. Delays, he pointed out, only result in missed opportunities for lower rates, which ultimately affects consumers.

He also proposed penalizing inefficiencies, stating, "If you’re not getting things done, there should be consequences. Inefficiency is a form of corruption." For him, too much analysis can lead to paralysis, and too much inefficiency is a burden on the government and the people.

Rep. Co believes that encouraging bidders to offer lower prices by streamlining processes can significantly impact electricity rates. "Let’s not make it so hard for them. The Speaker himself asked me, 'How do we reduce the price of electricity?' If we’re not dedicated to lowering costs, we’re just stuck in endless discussions."

He also highlighted the broader implications of high electricity rates. "We can’t attract jobs if our electricity costs are sky-high. How do we provide decent employment for our people when we’re not helping our government speed up the process? Even without automation, just speeding up the process can bring down electricity costs."

For Rep. Co, the solution is clear: common sense, efficiency, and a commitment to lowering electricity rates will lead to a brighter, more affordable future for all Filipinos.