Photo courtesy of Leilanie Adriano/Philippine News Agency
Local authorities in Ilocos Norte are urging residents to conserve electricity amid rising concerns over oil price volatility caused by ongoing tensions in the Middle East.
Ilocos Norte Electric Cooperative General Manager Cipriano Martinez III said the province could see a sharp increase in power rates this month due to higher shipping costs and insurance premiums.
“We urge our member-consumer-owners to adjust their electricity use as we expect household rates to surge into double digits,” Martinez said during an interview at the INEC main office in Dingras.
He added that simulations indicate the February 2026 power rate of Php 9.95 per kilowatt-hour could rise to Php 11.30 in the next billing cycle.
A province-wide energy conservation campaign is underway to help ease the impact of the expected hike.
“In our own little way, let’s conserve electricity. If this continues, it will affect everyone more,” Martinez said, expressing hope that global tensions would ease and crude oil prices stabilize.
Governor Cecilia Araneta-Marcos said the provincial government is exploring daylight-saving measures in government offices to reduce energy consumption.
She also highlighted ongoing fuel subsidy programs for tricycle and jeepney drivers to help public transport operators cope with the rising costs. “We are trying to support affected sectors, especially our public transport groups,” Araneta-Marcos said.