CITY OF SAN FERNANDO — The San Fernando Electric Light and Power Company (SFELAPCO) has renewed its call for marginalized and low-income consumers to apply for the Lifeline Discount Subsidy (LDS) in order to lower their monthly electric bills.
Mandated under RA 11552, the LDS aims to help individuals and families living below the poverty threshold pay for their electricity expenses. It is made available to two groups: members of the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps); and customers living below the poverty threshold who are not part of the 4Ps. Verification of eligibility is undertaken by the local social welfare and development office using certifications issued by the Philippine Statistics Authority.
Irwin Nucum, corporate communications officer of SFELAPCO, said that consumers with monthly electric consumption of 70 kilowatt-hours (kwh) or less are entitled to the subsidy.
He encouraged eligible individuals to visit their offices in person, bringing along their 4Ps ID or SWDO certification, as well as their latest electric bill. SFELAPCO’s customer relations staff will be available to assist with the application process. Nucum furthered that in the month of August this year, SFELAPCO customers will only need to pay P10.50 per kwh due to a decrease in the generation charge to P5.79.
Lifeline consumers who qualify for the subsidy will pay even lesser than the regular amount per kilowatt-hour, providing much-needed relief for low-income individuals such as fish ball vendors, security guards, construction workers, and kakanin sellers.
However, Nucum emphasized that the subsidy renewal is not automatic, and it requires individuals to apply for it. He expressed concern over the low number of applications received so far and urged eligible consumers to take advantage of the subsidy.
SFELAPCO is responsible for providing electricity services in the capital city of Pampanga as well as in Floridablanca town.
By renewing its call for indigent consumers to apply for the LDS, SFELAPCO aims to ensure that those who need the most assistance in paying their electric bills are made aware of the available support.
Through this subsidy, SFELAPCO aims to fulfill its commitment to supporting the most vulnerable segments of society.
