The Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) has clarified that consumers disputing electricity bills do not need to pay the full contested amount immediately, addressing concerns about unfair billing practices.

Senator Risa Hontiveros filed a Senate resolution seeking an investigation into ERC policies she called 'ironically unfair,' citing complaints of erroneous meter readings and unusually high bills.

The ERC emphasized that its Magna Carta for Residential Electricity Consumers (MCREC) provides protections against arbitrary disconnection while disputes are resolved.For cases involving meter errors, consumers are not required to pay disputed amounts during investigations.Those with bills exceeding 100% of their average consumption may only pay the adjusted rate.The ERC also clarified that there is no mandatory 'pay first' rule for all billing disputes.This comes amid rising energy costs and regulatory scrutiny over consumer protections.The clarification aims to balance utility operations with fair treatment of consumers, ensuring transparency in billing practices.