THE Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) has issued a reminder that the moratorium on power disconnections for households consuming more than 200 kilowatt-hours per month will expire at the end of October 2026.
The policy, which was put in place to provide financial relief to electricity customers during periods of economic difficulty, will cease to be in effect starting November 1, the ERC confirmed. This means that distribution utilities including Meralco may resume regular service disconnection procedures for customers in this consumption bracket who have outstanding unpaid bills.
The measure applies specifically to residential and other eligible consumers whose monthly electricity usage exceeds the 200 kWh threshold. Those who consume 200 kWh or less per month are covered by separate guidelines and will not be affected by this particular expiration. The ERC has urged all customers with pending balances to settle their accounts or contact their respective distribution utilities immediately to discuss payment arrangements before the deadline arrives.
The commission emphasized that it remains committed to protecting vulnerable electricity users, but noted that the temporary suspension of disconnection procedures was never intended to be permanent. Customers are encouraged to take advantage of the remaining days in October to resolve any overdue payments and avoid service interruptions in November. The ERC also advised the public to stay updated through official advisories for any further changes or extensions to related policies.
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