President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Tuesday directed the Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) to study the possible implementation of temporary relief on electricity bill payments in areas under a State of Calamity due to Severe Tropical Storm Kristine.

In a statement, the President instructed ERC to study the imposition of a moratorium on electricity line disconnections and payment collections from October to December 2024.

This initiative is part of the government’s continued efforts to aid victims.

“To aid in recovery efforts, the President directed the ERC to study the immediate implementation of a moratorium on electricity line disconnection and

payment collection for the period October to December 2024 in areas under State of Calamity due to STS Kristine, and staggered payments of electricity for the said months, as necessary,” the statement read.

Last week, STS Kristine brought heavy rain and strong winds to parts of the country, leaving some communities submerged in floodwaters. Of the affected regions, the Bicol Region sustained the most significant damage. | PND