House panel questions NGCP on foreign ownership, tax compliance

During a hearing on January 14, 2025, members of the Philippine House Committee on Legislative Franchises questioned the National Grid Corporation of the Philippines (NGCP) regarding potential foreign ownership and ties with Chinese companies, as well as tax compliance.

Rufus Rodriguez argued that there was no need for further investigation since NGCP had been paying its taxes according to the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR).

Robert Ace Barbers emphasized the importance of determining who controls NGCP due to concerns over Chinese influence.

Gerville Luistro inquired about adherence to constitutional requirements regarding foreign ownership and management of public utilities, which NGCP confirmed but revealed that Zhu Guangchao, a Chinese national, is designated as chairman.

David Suarez questioned why the chairmanship should be held by a Filipino given that 60% of NGCP is owned by Filipinos.

Additionally, delays in NGCP projects were discussed with some attributing to right-of-way issues and pending approvals from the Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC).