Rep Dan Fernandez wants Transco to regain power grid control from NGCP amid alleged non-compliance

Rep. Dan Fernandez is pushing for the National Transmission Corporation (Transco) to regain control over the country's power grid from the privately-owned National Grid Corporation of the Philippines (NGCP), as lawmakers prepare to probe NGCP’s franchise compliance starting January 2025.

Fernandez cited allegations of non-compliance with legal requirements and low tax payments, noting that Transco earned almost P9.8 billion annually before entering a concession agreement with NGCP, which could amount to P116 billion over 25 years.

He also highlighted concerns about ongoing power outages and automatic load dropping despite NGCP's presence, questioning the effectiveness of hiring a private company to improve service quality.

Fernandez raised issues regarding NGCP charging consumers for unfinished projects and failing to offer public ownership as stipulated in its franchise agreement.

Energy Undersecretary Sharon Garin confirmed that NGCP has several violations, including delays in projects affecting the country's energy plan and additional costs passed on to consumers.

NGCP spokesperson Cynthia Alabanza defended the company’s practices, maintaining that charging for unfinished projects was allowed by previous regulations and asserting that 60 percent of the firm is owned by Filipino businessmen.