DOE to broaden lifeline rate program access for low-income households

The Department of Energy (DOE) is planning to expand and simplify access to the Lifeline Rate Program, which provides electricity subsidies to low-income households.

This initiative is in response to President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.'s directive to extend the benefit beyond current Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) beneficiaries.

To streamline the process, the DOE will implement automated data matching with the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) for 4Ps households.

For eligible low-income families not part of the 4Ps, social workers will conduct field validation to confirm their qualifications.

Energy Secretary Sharon Garin emphasized the goal of making the subsidy easily accessible to those who need it most, minimizing lengthy procedures and documentation.

Additionally, the DOE, in coordination with the Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC), is reviewing the minimum electricity consumption threshold for the program to ensure both broader access and financial sustainability.