THE SUPREME Court ruling affirming the constitutionality of MORE Electric and Power Corporation’s franchise expansion is a defining moment for electricity consumers in Iloilo Province. For too long, many residents have endured high rates, outdated infrastructure, and unreliable service from their current providers. With this decision, a new chapter begins — one that promises to place consumer welfare at the center of energy distribution.
The Court’s final denial of the motions for reconsideration filed by Iloilo Electric Cooperative I (ILECO I), PHILRECA, and other petitioners clears the last legal obstacle to the rollout of MORE Power’s services. This should be welcome news not just to the local governments that have been advocating for a shift, but more importantly, to the people who have long clamored for fairer electricity rates and a more efficient power supply.
Take the town of Pavia, for instance. Its leaders were the first to officially request inclusion in MORE Power’s service area, citing the significant price difference between what Pavianhons were paying and what their neighbors in Iloilo City enjoyed. But it was never just about cost — it was also about access to reliable power, modern infrastructure, and responsive service. These are basic expectations, not luxuries, and it is a disservice to continue shielding poor performance behind outdated cooperative monopolies.
The energy sector, especially power distribution, cannot afford to lag behind in innovation and accountability. MORE Power’s operations in Iloilo City have already demonstrated tangible improvements — from upgraded systems and faster response times to greater billing transparency. If replicated and scaled effectively, the residents of Alimodian, Anilao, Banate, Barotac Nuevo, Dingle, Dueñas, Dumangas, Leganes, Leon, New Lucena, Pavia, San Enrique, San Miguel, Santa Barbara, and Zarraga, and Passi City stand to benefit greatly from this expansion.
Of course, the real work begins now. Consumers will be watching — not just with hope, but with expectations. MORE Power must fulfill its commitment to phased, efficient rollout, ensure a smooth transition from existing service providers, and uphold its promise of affordability and reliability.
This is also a reminder to other distribution utilities across the country: performance matters. The age of complacency in power service is over. Consumers are more informed and more empowered, and their voices — amplified through local governments and legislative action — can and will shape the future of public utilities.
The Supreme Court’s ruling, then, affirms that public welfare can prevail over corporate inertia. For the people of Iloilo, it is a long-awaited breakthrough — and hopefully, the beginning of a brighter, better-powered tomorrow.
