Benise Balaoing

Workers inspect an electric meter installed above ground in Manila on January 11, 2024. Mark Demayo, ABS-CBN News

Article (news)

Electric Meter Reading

Arthur Fuentes

Alvin Elchico

ABS-CBN News

MANILA (UPDATE) — Meralco electricity rates are going up in March.The power distributor said rates are increasing by P0.64/kWh because of higher generation and transmission charges. The adjustment brings the total rate to P13.8161 per kWh.This means electricity bills are going up by the following amounts:Consumption    Increase 200 kwh            P129 300 kwh            P193 400 kwh            P257 500 kwh            P321Meralco attributed the hike primarily to a 70 percent surge in ancillary service charges from the National Grid Corporation of the Philippines (NGCP) Reserve Market. Higher generation charges, fueled by fixed costs from power purchase agreements, also contributed to the rise, offsetting improved supply conditions in the Luzon grid.The price hike comes as the government warns of energy security risks linked to the ongoing Middle East conflict and rising domestic temperatures. Electricity demand historically jumps by up to 33 percent during the Philippine summer as cooling appliance usage peaks.“We are entering a period when demand for electricity traditionally peaks, and external factors are adding pressure to energy costs,” said Meralco Vice President and Head of Corporate Communications Joe Zaldarriaga.“By embracing energy efficiency, consumers can have better control on their electricity bills and at the same time, contribute to mitigating the impact of external factors on electricity costs,” he added.Meralco, the Philippines&#x27; largest power distributor, noted its own distribution charge has remained unchanged since August 2022.<div>FOUR-DAY WORKWEEK? </div>Meanwhile, the company said that while the 4-day work week or work-from-home scheme will cut energy consumption for establishments and government offices, it will push up consumption at home.Zaldarriage said this will coincide with the summer season, when seasonal consumption goes up due to hotter weather. So while it will reduce electricity use for offices, it will also raise consumption for households.“Kailangang masinop at metaling ang paggamit natin sa kuryente, pag nasa bahay tayo let’s be conscious anyway that’s within our scope of control eh,&quot; he said.Meralco Utility Economics head Engr. Larry Fernandez, meanwhile, said, this is on top of the already expected increase in consumption due to the hotter months.&quot;Pwedeng madagdagan dahil sa bahay nagtatrabaho ang mga tao dahil sa 4-day work week kailangan nating maging conscious,&quot; Fernandez said.

Meralco power rates to go up in March

News

Entertainment

Lifestyle

Sports

Metro.Style

More

BINI

Sudoku

Word of the Day

Lotto

Horoscope

Business

Meralco power rates to go up in March

Benise Balaoing,

Arthur Fuentes,

Alvin Elchico,

ABS-CBN News

Published March 10, 2026 11:13 AM PHT

|

Updated March 10, 2026 05:02 PM PHT

Read More:

Meralco

electricity rates

power rates

bill sa kuryente

ABS-CBN Newsletter

Your go-to source for the latest news, entertainment highlights, exclusive interviews, and updates on your favorite Kapamilya stars.

ABS-CBN Newsletter

Your go-to source for the latest news, entertainment highlights, exclusive interviews, and updates on your favorite Kapamilya stars.

Sign Up

I have read and agree to the Terms and Privacy Policy.

Haven't received our newsletter?

Check your inbox to verify and confirm your subscription.

ABS-CBN is the leading media and entertainment company in the Philippines, offering quality content across TV, radio, digital, and film. Committed to public service and promoting Filipino values, ABS-CBN continues to inspire and connect audiences worldwide.

Corporate

Investors

Governance

International Distribution

Corporate

Governance

Investors

International Distribution

NPC Seal of Registration

Privacy Policy

AI Policy

Terms of Service

Advertise with Us

© 2026 ABS-CBN Corporation. All Rights Reserved.

NPC Seal of Registration

Privacy Policy

Terms of Service

AI Policy

Advertise with Us

© 2026 ABS-CBN Corporation. All Rights Reserved.

NPC Seal of Registration

Privacy Policy

Terms of Service

AI Policy

Advertise with Us

© 2026 ABS-CBN Corporation. All Rights Reserved.