Former finance secretary Gary Teves has called for a comprehensive review of the government’s Lifeline Rate Program and other electricity subsidies for low-income households, citing its possible impact on the country’s fiscal position.
He said that while shifting electricity costs away from bills could ease financial pressure on families amid high energy prices and inflation, such policies must be weighed against national budget priorities.
Teves also noted the low uptake of the program, with only about 7.3 percent or 330,000 of 4.5 million eligible households enrolled as of July 2025, raising concerns over awareness and access issues.
The proposal falls under the review of the Joint Congressional Energy Commission, in coordination with the Energy Regulatory Commission and the Department of Energy.
The Department of Budget and Management said any expansion of subsidies would require fiscal space and must align with the government’s approved budget and deficit targets.
Source: PhilNews24 | May 8, 2026
