BUSINESS
Advocates Philippines
Meralco Explains 'Lifeline' Charge In Power Bills
FILE
Consumers who have noticed the “Lifeline” item on their electricity bills can rest assured—it’s not an extra charge from Meralco.
In a recent clarification, the power distributor said the Lifeline charge is part of a government program designed to help low-income households manage their electricity costs. The initiative, known as the Lifeline Rate Subsidy Program, is mandated under Republic Act 9136 or EPIRA, and reinforced by Republic Act No. 11552.
Under the program, qualified households—including beneficiaries of the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) and those below the poverty threshold—receive discounts on their electricity bills depending on their monthly consumption.
For instance, households consuming between 0 to 20 kilowatt-hours get a full 100% discount. Those using 21 to 50 kWh receive a 50% discount, while 51 to 70 kWh users get 35% off. Consumers using 71 to 100 kWh are granted a 20% discount.
The subsidy is funded collectively by other electricity users who are in a better position to pay. Currently, it amounts to just ₱0.01 per kilowatt-hour.
Meralco emphasized that the Lifeline charge is a pass-through cost, meaning it does not go to the company. Instead, it is implemented across all distribution utilities and electric cooperatives nationwide.
“This is a good example of bayanihan, where those who have more are able to help those who need support,” the company said.
"Muli, ako po si Joe Zaldarriaga ng Meralco. Maraming salamat."
In a recent clarification, the power distributor said the Lifeline charge is part of a government program designed to help low-income households manage their electricity costs. The initiative, known as the Lifeline Rate Subsidy Program, is mandated under Republic Act 9136 or EPIRA, and reinforced by Republic Act No. 11552.
Under the program, qualified households—including beneficiaries of the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) and those below the poverty threshold—receive discounts on their electricity bills depending on their monthly consumption.
For instance, households consuming between 0 to 20 kilowatt-hours get a full 100% discount. Those using 21 to 50 kWh receive a 50% discount, while 51 to 70 kWh users get 35% off. Consumers using 71 to 100 kWh are granted a 20% discount.
The subsidy is funded collectively by other electricity users who are in a better position to pay. Currently, it amounts to just ₱0.01 per kilowatt-hour.
Meralco emphasized that the Lifeline charge is a pass-through cost, meaning it does not go to the company. Instead, it is implemented across all distribution utilities and electric cooperatives nationwide.
“This is a good example of bayanihan, where those who have more are able to help those who need support,” the company said.
"Muli, ako po si Joe Zaldarriaga ng Meralco. Maraming salamat."
Apr 26, 2026
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