Upholding the Rights of Electric Cooperatives Against Franchise Takeovers
TIELCO joins NORDECO and other electric cooperatives nationwide in condemning efforts to undermine EC independence through franchise grabbing and privatization.
Why This Matters:
Electric cooperatives (ECs) are:
-
Non-stock, non-profit organizations, owned by the Member-Consumer-Owners (MCOs)
-
Committed to rural electrification and service equity
-
Operate under the oversight of NEA and ERC, meeting national standards
“Electric cooperatives have powered rural communities where private utilities once ignored. That history cannot be rewritten.” – TIELCO
The Threat of Franchise Grabbing
We strongly oppose House Bill No. 11072, which seeks to expand Davao Light and Power Company’s franchise into NORDECO’s area.
-
⚖ RA 9136 (EPIRA Law) clearly states:
“All existing franchises shall be allowed to their full term.” -
📉 There is no guarantee private firms will offer lower rates. Some already charge higher DSM fees than ECs.
Our Commitment to the People
Despite limited subsidies and disaster risks, ECs continue to:
-
Light remote and underserved areas
-
Maintain fair, regulated pricing
-
Uphold their mandate of public service over profit
We call on legislators to listen to the voices of millions of MCOs and reject attempts to privatize what rightfully belongs to the people.
💡 Support Cooperativism. Protect the People’s Power.
“Let the people be empowered by letting them own their electric service—not the oligarchs, not the elites.”