(DC file photo)
Vice President Sara Duterte urged Filipinos to prepare for possible increases in electricity bills as the El Niño phenomenon continues to affect the country.
In a statement featured on October 26, 2026, Duterte acknowledged that electricity costs were already high and warned that the weather phenomenon could further contribute to rising power expenses.
“Ang mataas na kuryente ay hindi lang ‘yan ngayon. Pwede ding ang epekto ‘yan ng El Niño na mas tataas pa ‘yung ating ang bill ah sa kuryente. Kaya napakahalaga na matuto tayong humarap sa pagtaas ng kuryente, sa epekto ng El Niño,” Duterte said.
The Vice President emphasized the importance of understanding and preparing for the financial impact of higher electricity rates, particularly as households face additional expenses.
However, her remarks did not specify concrete measures or government assistance programs to help consumers cope with the potential increase in electricity bills.
El Niño typically brings hotter and drier conditions, which can increase electricity demand as households rely more heavily on cooling appliances.
Prolonged dry weather may also affect hydroelectric power generation, potentially adding pressure to electricity supply and prices.
With electricity costs already placing a burden on many Filipino families, the possibility of further increases raises concerns over household spending and the affordability of essential utilities.
