MASBATE 1st District Representative Antonio “Tony” Kho has expressed strong support for President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr.’s call during his 2026 State of the Nation Address (SONA) to amend the Electric Power Industry Reform Act (EPIRA).
The proposed amendments aim to stop passing system loss charges onto electricity consumers, a move Rep. Kho emphasized aligns with his longstanding push for comprehensive power sector reforms.
Rep. Kho recalled highlighting similar concerns during a privilege speech before the House of Representatives on January 26, 2026.
At the time, he urged Congress to review Republic Act No. 9136 (EPIRA), pointing out that while privatization liberalized major island grids, off-grid and geographically isolated provinces like Masbate were left behind due to low financial returns for private investors.
“We need reforms that recognize the realities of off-grid and island provinces. If we continue to privatize and commercialize what should fundamentally be a public service without addressing these disparities, our poorest provinces will remain literally and figuratively in the dark,” Kho stated.
To address these disparities, Rep. Kho introduced the proposed Ayuda Kuryente program.
The initiative seeks to provide government subsidies to financially distressed electric cooperatives struggling with loan obligations to the National Electrification Administration (NEA) and National Power Corporation (NAPOCOR).
The lawmaker also advocated prioritizing cooperatives in low-income, isolated areas that lack stable power infrastructure.
Additionally, Rep. Kho called for strategic infrastructure investments—such as constructing new substations and rehabilitating existing distribution lines—to curb technical system losses, improve grid reliability, lower rates, and spur economic activity in underserved communities.
With President Marcos prioritizing EPIRA amendments in his latest SONA, Rep. Kho expressed optimism that Congress will act swiftly to lower electricity costs and protect vulnerable consumers.
Kho reaffirmed his commitment to championing legislation that guarantees affordable, reliable, and equitable power access for all Filipinos.
