Extension and Enhancement of Lifeline Rate Implementation

Qualified marginalized end-users include:
- (a) Qualified household-beneficiaries under the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) Act, as submitted by the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD).
- (b) Marginalized end-users certified and continually validated by distribution utilities based on ERC-determined criteria.
The criteria must consider the poverty threshold set by the PSA and consist of an exclusive list of reasonable documentary requirements.
Distribution utilities must act on applications for certification within two working days of receiving complete documents, or ten working days during the Act’s initial implementation.
All qualified end-users must continually meet criteria to avail of the lifeline rate.

The ERC shall promulgate rules and guidelines for qualified marginalized end-users whose meters or service connections are not registered in their names.

The ERC must submit an annual report on lifeline rate implementation to the Joint Congressional Energy Commission.
A comprehensive evaluation of the lifeline rate’s implementation, including validation methods and leakage prevention, shall be conducted by the ERC every two years.

Current consumption levels, subsidy, and rates remain applicable until the ERC determines and approves new levels following the Act’s provisions.

The ERC, in coordination with the Department of Energy (DOE) and DSWD, and consultation with PSA and stakeholders, shall promulgate implementing rules within ninety calendar days from the Act’s effectivity.

If any part of the Act is declared unconstitutional or invalid, unaffected provisions shall remain effective (Separability Clause).
Laws and regulations inconsistent with this Act are repealed or modified accordingly (Repealing Clause).

The Act takes effect fifteen days after publication in the Official Gazette or a newspaper of general circulation.