TWENTIETH CONGRESS OF THE 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
First Regular Session
)
; f'
-(“•''fyftur Ut till sw ■. liJii-'
25 JULIO PI :16
SENATE
346
S. No.
RtCEiVcUtiV:
Introduced by Senator PIA S. CAYETANO
AN ACT
STRENGTHENING THE ENERGY REGULATORY COMMISSION, AMENDING 
FOR THE PURPOSE SECTIONS 38, 39, 40, 41, 43, 44, 45, AND 46 OF 
REPUBLIC ACT NO. 9136, OTHERWISE KNOWN AS THE "ELECTRIC POWER 
INDUSTRY REFORM ACT OF 2001"
EXPLANATORY NOTE
It is the policy of the State to ensure the availability of quality, reliable, secure, 
and affordable supply of electric power throughout the country.1 This obligation 
supports inclusive economic development, industrial growth, and the protection of 
consumer welfare, recognizing that access to electricity is a fundamental driver of 
national progress.
In this regard. Republic Act No. 9136, or the "Electric Power Industry Reform 
Act of 2001", was enacted to restructure the electric power industry and introduce 
market reforms. While the law initiated the privatization and unbundling of generation, 
transmission, distribution, and supply, it preserved the character of transmission and 
distribution as public utilities subject to regulation. The Energy Regulatory Commission 
(ERC) was established to oversee this regulation, particularly in the determination of 
performance standards, recoverable costs, and allowable returns.2
Over two decades later, the ERC continues to play a central role in the 
regulation of the electric power industry. However, legislative inquiries held during the 
19th Congress revealed critical issues plaguing the energy sector, particularly in the 
regulatory process of the ERC. Stakeholders voiced serious concerns over key
1 Sec. 2(b), RA 9136.
2 Sec. 43, RA 9136


procedural shortcomings within the ERC's regulatory framework, including substantial 
delays in processing applications and the absence of streamlined operational 
procedures. These procedural inefficiencies were identified as critical impediments to 
advancing a more efficient and responsive energy sector.3
This bill seeks to strengthen the ERC through a recalibration of its mandate, 
powers, and internal systems. This aims to ensure that the ERC remains independent, 
competent, responsive, and capable of balancing the needs of consumers, investors, 
and the State.
This proposed measure sets additional qualifications for ERC Commissioners to 
ensure a broader range of expertise, aiming to enhance both the quality and efficiency 
of decision-making. To uphold ERC's integrity, transparency, and independence, this 
bill also imposes prohibitions and disqualifications of ERC Commissioners and their 
relatives.
Recognizing the evolving nature of the electric power sector, this bill mandates 
the continued upskilling of ERC personnel. It also strengthens rate-setting mechanisms 
and enhances regulatory effectiveness by including benchmarking as a regulatory 
function. In the exercise of its quasi-judicial powers, the Commission will also be given 
procedural flexibility, with authority to conduct regular, summary, or administrative 
proceedings aimed at improving transparency, expediency, and consistency in 
regulatory action.
Finally, the bill significantly increases the administrative penalties to reflect the 
gravity of violations and to ensure that they serve as a meaningful deterrent, with 
future adjustments tied to inflation to maintain their effectiveness over time. A 
stronger ERC means a more accountable, transparent, and responsive power sector.
In pursuit of energy equity and regulatory reform, the passage of this measure 
is earnestly sought.
PIA S. CAYOTANO '
3 Senate of the Philippines. (2024, October 17). Senator Pia Cayetano: Strengthen ERC for Reliable Energy 
Supply, https;//web.senate.gov.ph/press_release/2024/1017_cayetano2.asp


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17
TWENTIETH CONGRESS OF THE 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
First Regular Session
« ; •! .
r: Ul si .
)
SENATE
S. No. 346
25 JULIO P1:16
RFCEIVEO BY;
Introduced by Senator PIA S. CAYETANO
AN ACT
STRENGTHENING THE ENERGY REGULATORY COMMISSION, AMENDING 
FOR THE PURPOSE SECTIONS 38, 39, 40, 41, 43, 44, 45, AND 46 OF 
REPUBLIC ACT NO. 9136, OTHERWISE KNOWN AS THE "ELECTRIC POWER 
INDUSTRY REFORM ACT OF 2001"
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the Philippines in 
Congress assembled:
Section 1. Section 38 of Republic Act No. 9136 is hereby amended to read as 
follows:
"Sec. 38. Creation of the Energy Regulatory Commission. -
XXX
The Commission shall be composed of a Chair[man]PERSON and four 
(4) members, to be appointed by the President of the Philippines.
THE CHAIRPERSON AND THE MEMBERS OF THE COMMISSION 
SHALL HAVE THE RANK OF CABINET SECRETARY AND 
UNDERSECRETARY, RESPECTIVELY. [The Chairman and the 
members of the Commission shall be natural-born citizens and 
residents of the Philippines, persons of good moral character, at least 
thirty-five (35) years of age, and of recognized competence in any of 
the following fields: energy, law, economics, finance, commerce, or 
engineering, with at least three (3) years actual and distinguished 
experience in their respective fields of expertise: Provided, That out of 
the four (4) members of the Commission, at least one (1) shall be a 
member of the Philippine Bar with at least ten (10) years of experience
1


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in the active practice of law, and one (1) shall be a certified public 
accountant with at least ten (10) years of experience in active 
practice.]
THE CHAIRPERSON AND THE MEMBERS OF THE COMMISSION 
SHALL BE:
A) NATURAL-BORN CITIZENS AND RESIDENTS OF THE 
PHILIPPINES;
B) AT LEAST THIRTY-FIVE (35) YEARS OF AGE;
C) OF GOOD MORAL CHARACTER; AND
D) OF RECOGNIZED COMPETENCE IN ANY OF THE FIELDS 
OF ENERGY, LAW, ECONOMICS, FINANCE, COMMERCE, 
OR ENGINEERING, WITH AT LEAST TEN (10) YEARS OF 
ACTIVE PRACTICE IN THEIR RESPECTIVE FIELDS OF 
EXPERTISE.
PROVIDED, THAT OUT OF THE FOUR (4) MEMBERS OF THE 
COMMISSION, THERE SHALL BE AT LEAST ONE (1) MEMBER 
OF THE PHILIPPINE BAR, ONE (1) CERTIFIED PUBLIC 
ACCOUNTANT, AND ONE (1) LICENSED ENGINEER.
[Within three (3) months from the creation of the ERC, the Chairman 
shall submit for the approval by the President of the Philippines the 
new organizational structure and plantilla positions necessary to carry 
out the powers and functions of the ERC.]
WITHIN THREE (3) MONTHS FROM THE EFFECTIVITY OF THIS 
ACT, SUBJECT TO THE REVIEW AND APPROVAL OF THE 
DEPARTMENT OF BUDGET AND MANAGEMENT (DBM), THE 
CHAIRPERSON OF THE ERC SHALL DETERMINE THE NEW 
ORGANIZATIONAL STRUCTURE AND STAFFING PATTERN OF 
THE ERC HEREIN PROVIDED, IN ACCORDANCE WITH 
EXISTING CIVIL SERVICE COMMISSION LAWS, RULES AND 
REGULATIONS: PROVIDED, THAT THE MOVEMENT OF 
PERSONNEL TO IMPLEMENT THE ESTABLISHMENT OF A NEW


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ORGANIZATIONAL STRUCTURE SHALL BE BASED ON PRIOR 
MANDATORY ASSESSMENT OF FITNESS, SKILLS, AND 
COMPETENCIES OF EXISTING STAFF, IN ACCORDANCE WITH 
APPLICABLE LAWS, RULES AND REGULATIONS, AND ALIGNED 
WITH THE PERSONNEL'S CAPACITY AND PERFORMANCE: 
PROVIDED, FURTHER, THAT THE NEW POSITION TO WHICH 
THEY WILL BE TRANSFERRED SHALL NOT BE LOWER THAN 
THE RANK AND SALARY OF THEIR PREVIOUS POSITION.
EVERY FIVE (5) YEARS THEREAFTER, OR AS MAY BE DEEMED 
NECESSARY BY THE COMMISSION, THE ERC SHALL REVIEW 
ITS ORGANIZATIONAL STRUCTURE TO DETERMINE THE 
NECESSITY OF FURTHER RESTRUCTURING OR 
REORGANIZATION, WHICH MAY INCLUDE THE CREATION OF 
ADDITIONAL SERVICES, ESTABLISHMENT OF NEW 
DIVISIONS, OR THE ASSIGNMENT OF ADDITIONAL 
PERSONNEL WITHIN EACH DIVISION.
XXX
THE CHAIRPERSON OF THE COMMISSION, AS THE CHIEF 
EXECUTIVE OFFICER, SHALL HAVE THE FOLLOWING POWERS, 
FUNCTIONS, AND DUTIES:
A) TO EXECUTE, ADMINISTER AND IMPLEMENT THE 
POLICIES AND MEASURES APPROVED AND ADOPTED BY 
THE COMMISSION;
B) TO DIRECTLY ADMINISTER AND SUPERVISE THE 
OPERATIONS AND DAY-TO-DAY BUSINESS ACTIVITIES 
OF THE COMMISSION;
C) TO REPRESENT THE COMMISSION IN ALL DEALINGS 
WITH OFFICES, AGENCIES, AND INSTRUMENTALITIES 
OF THE GOVERNMENT AND WITH ALL PERSONS AND 
ENTITIES, PUBLIC OR PRIVATE, DOMESTIC OR


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FOREIGN, UNLESS OTHERWISE DIRECTED BY THE 
COMMISSION;
D) TO EXECUTE, ON BEHALF OF THE COMMISSION, ALL 
CONTRACTS, AGREEMENTS AND OTHER INSTRUMENTS 
AFFECTING THE INTERESTS OF THE ERC DULY 
APPROVED BY THE COMMISSION;
E) TO DIRECT AND SUPERVISE THE PREPARATION OF THE 
AGENDA FOR THE MEETINGS OF THE COMMISSION;
F) TO PRESIDE AT THE MEETINGS OF THE COMMISSION;
G) TO IMPLEMENT THE ORDER OF TEMPORARY PRICE 
MITIGATION MEASURES, SUCH AS MARKET 
SUSPENSION, PAYMENT DEFERRAL, SUSPENSION OF 
DISCONNECTION, AND SUCH OTHER MEASURES THAT 
MAY BE APPROVED BY THE COMMISSION DURING THE 
EXISTENCE OF OR DURATION OF A CALAMITY OR 
EMERGENCY, AND UNDER SUCH CONDITIONS AS MAY 
BE DETERMINED BY LAW OR GUIDELINES TO BE 
ISSUED BY THE COMMISSION: PROVIDED, THAT A 
FORMAL DECLARATION OF CALAMITY OR EMERGENCY 
HAS BEEN ISSUED BY THE RELEVANT NATIONAL 
GOVERNMENT AGENCY OR LOCAL GOVERNMENT UNIT: 
PROVIDED, FURTHER, THAT THE IMPLEMENTATION OF 
TEMPORARY PRICE MITIGATION MEASURES SHALL BE 
SUBJECT TO SUBSEQUENT CONFIRMATION BY THE 
COMMISSION; AND
H) TO EXERCISE SUCH OTHER POWERS, FUNCTIONS AND 
DUTIES AS MAY BE ASSIGNED BY THE COMMISSION.
XXX
[The chairman and members of the Commission shall assume office 
of the beginning of their terms: Provided, That, if upon the 
effectivity of this Act, the Commission has not been constituted and 
the new staffing pattern and plantilla positions have not been


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approved and filled-up, the current Board and existing personnel of 
ERB shall continue to hold office. The existing personnel of the ERB, 
if qualified, shall be given preference in the filling up of plantilla 
positions created in the ERC, subject to existing civil service rules 
and regulations.]
[The Chairman and members of the Commission or any of their 
relatives within the fourth civil degree of consanguinity or affinity, 
legitimate or common law, shall be prohibited from holding any 
interest whatsoever, either as investor, stockholder, officer or 
director, in any company or entity engaged in the business of 
transmitting, generating, supplying or distributing any form of 
energy and must, therefore, divest through sale or legal disposition 
of any and all interests in the energy sector upon assumption of 
office.]"
Sec. 2. A new Section, designated as Section 38(A) of Republic Act No. 9136, 
is hereby inserted to read as follows:
"SEC. 38(A). PROHIBITED ACTS - DURING THEIR TERM OF 
OFFICE, THE CHAIRPERSON AND MEMBERS OF THE 
COMMISSION ARE HEREBY PROHIBITED FROM:
A) TAKING UP ANY EMPLOYMENT OR CONSULTANCY 
ARRANGEMENT WITH ANY ELECTRIC POWER 
INDUSTRY PARTICIPANT;
B) HOLDING ANY COMMERCIAL OR ANY PECUNIARY 
INTEREST WHATSOEVER EITHER AS INVESTOR, 
STOCKHOLDER, OFFICER, OR DIRECTOR, IN ANY 
ELECTRIC POWER INDUSTRY PARTICIPANT, OR THOSE 
ENGAGED IN THE BUSINESS OF TRANSMITTING, 
GENERATING, SUPPLYING OR DISTRIBUTING ANY 
FORM OF ENERGY;
C) HOLDING ANY OTHER OFFICE OR EMPLOYMENT; AND
D) PRACTICING ANY PROFESSION, DIRECTLY OR 
INDIRECTLY, ENGAGING IN ANY BUSINESS, OR


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HOLDING ANY FINANCIAL INTEREST IN ANY 
CONTRACT WITH, OR ANY FRANCHISE, OR RECEIVING 
SPECIAL PRIVILEGES GRANTED BY THE GOVERNMENT 
OR ANY SUBDIVISION, AGENCY, OR 
INSTRUMENTALITY THEREOF, 
INCLUDING
GOVERNMENT-OWNED 
AND 
CONTROLLED
CORPORATIONS (GOCCS) OR THEIR SUBSIDIARIES. 
PROVIDED, THAT DURING THE INCUMBENCY OF THE 
CHAIRPERSON OR MEMBER OF THE COMMISSION, ANY OF 
THEIR RELATIVES WITHIN THE FOURTH CIVIL DEGREE OF 
CONSANGUINITY OR AFFINITY, LEGITIMATE OR COMMON 
LAW, SHALL BE PROHIBITED FROM:
A) TAKING UP ANY EMPLOYMENT OR CONSULTANCY 
ARRANGEMENT WITH AN ELECTRIC POWER INDUSTRY 
PARTICIPANT;
B) HOLDING ANY COMMERCIAL OR ANY PECUNIARY 
INTEREST, EITHER AS INVESTOR, STOCKHOLDER, 
OFFICER OR DIRECTOR, IN ANY ELECTRIC POWER 
INDUSTRY PARTICIPANT, OR THOSE ENGAGED IN THE 
BUSINESS OF TRANSMITTING, GENERATING, 
SUPPLYING OR DISTRIBUTING ANY FORM OF ENERGY; 
AND
C) APPEARING AS COUNSEL OR AGENT ON ANY MATTER 
PENDING BEFORE THE COMMISSION OR TRANSACTING 
BUSINESS DIRECTLY OR INDIRECTLY THEREIN.
PROVIDED, FURTHER, THAT THE CHAIRMAN AND MEMBERS 
OF THE COMMISSION OR ANY OF THEIR RELATIVES WITHIN 
THE FOURTH CIVIL DEGREE OF CONSANGUINITY OR 
AFFINITY, LEGITIMATE OR COMMON LAW, HOLDING ANY 
COMMERCIAL OR ANY PECUNIARY INTEREST, IN ANY 
ELECTRIC POWER INDUSTRY PARTICIPANT, IN ANY 
CAPACITY, SHALL DIVEST THROUGH SALE OR LEGAL


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DISPOSITION OF ANY AND ALL INTERESTS IN THE ENERGY 
SECTOR UPON ASSUMPTION OF OFFICE: PROVIDED, 
FINALLY, THAT WITHIN THREE (3) YEARS FROM CESSATION 
OF THEIR SERVICE, THE CHAIRPERSON AND THE MEMBERS 
OF THE COMMISSION ARE HEREBY PROHIBITED FROM:
A) RUNNING FOR ANY PUBLIC OFFICE IN THE NATIONAL 
OR LOCAL ELECTION;
B) TAKING UP ANY EMPLOYMENT OR CONSULTANCY 
ARRANGEMENT WITH ANY ELECTRIC POWER 
INDUSTRY PARTICIPANT; AND
C) PERSONALLY APPEARING OR PRACTICING AS COUNSEL 
OR AGENT ON ANY MATTER PENDING BEFORE THE 
COMMISSION."
Sec. 3. Sec. 39 of Republic Act No. 9136 is hereby amended to read as follows: 
"Sec. 39. Compensation and Other Emoluments for ERC 
Personnel. - The compensation and other emoluments for the 
Chair[man]PERSON and members of the Commission and the ERC 
personnel shall be exempted from the coverage of Republic Act No. 
6758, [otherwise known as]OR the Salary Standardization Act. For 
this purpose, the schedule of compensation of the ERC personnel, 
except for the initial salaries and compensation of the 
Chair[man]PERSON and members of the Commission, shall be 
submitted for approval by the President of the Philippines. The new 
schedule of compensation shall be implemented within six (6) 
months from the effectivity of this Act and may be upgraded by the 
President of the Philippines as the need arises: Provided, That in no 
case shall the rate be upgraded more than once a year.
The Chair[man]PERSON and members of the Commission shall 
initially be entitled to the same salaries, allowances and benefits as 
those of the [Presiding] CHIEF Justice and Associate Justices of 
the Supreme Court, respectively. The Chair[man]PERSON and the 
members of the Commission, upon completion of their term or upon


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becoming eligible for retirement under existing laws, shall be 
entitled to the same retirement benefits and privileges provided for 
the Presiding Justice and Associate Justices of the Court of Appeals, 
respectively."
Sec. 4. Sec. 40 of Republic Act No. 9136 is hereby amended to read as follows: 
"Sec. 40. Enhancement of Technical Competence. - The ERC shall 
establish rigorous training programs for its staff for the purpose of 
enhancing the technical competence of the ERC in the following 
areas: evaluation of technical performance and monitoring of 
compliance with service and performance standards, performance- 
based rate-setting reform, environmental standards and such other 
areas as will enable the ERC to adequately perform its duties and 
functions. FOR THIS PURPOSE, THE ERC SHALL ALLOT NO 
LESS THAN FIFTEEN PERCENT (15%) OF ITS TOTAL 
ANNUAL APPROVED BUDGET FOR THE TRAINING AND 
UPGRADING OF SKILLS OF ITS PERSONNEL"
Sec. 5. Sec. 41 of Republic Act No. 9136 is hereby amended to read as follows: 
"Sec. 41. Promotion of Consumer Interests. - The ERC shall handle 
consumer complaints and ensure the adequate promotion of 
consumer interests.
THE ERC SHALL ESTABLISH GUIDELINES FOR 
DETERMINING LEGITIMATE REPRESENTATION OF 
CONSUMER ORGANIZATIONS FOR CONDUCTING FORUMS 
WHERE CONSUMERS CAN EXPRESS CONCERNS ON 
POLICIES AND REGULATIONS OUTSIDE THE FORMAL 
RULE-MAKING PROCESSES: PROVIDED, THAT THE 
DETERMINATION OF LEGITIMATE CONSUMER 
ORGANIZATION SHALL BE SUBJECT TO THE EXISTING 
RULES AND REGULATIONS ISSUED BY THE DEPARTMENT 
OF TRADE AND INDUSTRY.
UNLESS CONSIDERED CONFIDENTIAL OR COVERED BY 
EXECUTIVE OR DELIBERATIVE PROCESSES, ALL


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PETITIONS, APPLICATIONS, AND REPORTORIAL 
REQUIREMENTS OF ELECTRIC POWER INDUSTRY 
PARTICIPANTS, INCLUDING ALL ANNEXES THERETO, AS 
WELL AS ORDERS, DECISIONS, AND RESOLUTIONS OF THE 
COMMISSION, SHALL BE POSTED ON THE ERC'S OFFICIAL 
WEBSITE WITHIN FIVE (5) DAYS FROM SUBMISSION OR 
PROMULGATION, AS THE CASE MAY BE.
A SUPPORT DESK SHALL BE MADE AVAILABLE TO THE 
PUBLIC, WHICH WILL PROVIDE ASSISTANCE TO 
CONSUMERS FOR A BETTER UNDERSTANDING OF ALL 
PROCEEDINGS AND ISSUANCES OF THE COMMISSION, AS 
WELL AS ANY AND ALL MATTERS WHICH AFFECT THE 
ELECTRICITY RATES CHARGED TO CONSUMERS; 
PROVIDED, THAT THE INFORMATION IS NOT 
CONFIDENTIAL IN NATURE.
EVERY CONSUMER HAS THE RIGHT TO INFORMATION AND 
SHALL, UPON REQUEST, BE GIVEN ACCESS TO SUCH 
INFORMATION OF PUBLIC CONCERN AND WITHIN THE 
CONTROL OF THE COMMISSION: PROVIDED, THAT SAID 
ACCESS SHALL NOT BE GRANTED IF:
A) THE INFORMATION IS CONSIDERED CONFIDENTIAL 
UNDER THE ERC RULES OF PRACTICE AND 
PROCEDURE;
B) THE INFORMATION CONSISTS OF MINUTES OR 
RECORDS OF ADVICE GIVEN, OR OF OPINIONS 
EXPRESSED DURING DECISION-MAKING OR POLICY 
FORMULATION IN THE COURSE OF EXECUTIVE 
SESSIONS;
C) THE INFORMATION REQUESTED CONSISTS OF 
DRAFTS OF ORDERS, RESOLUTIONS, DECISIONS, OR 
MEMORANDA OF THE COMMISSION IN THE 
EXERCISE OF ITS REGULATORY FUNCTION; OR


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D) THE INFORMATION REQUESTED PERTAINS TO 
TRADE SECRETS, SENSITIVE, OR OTHER 
PROPRIETARY INFORMATION, WHENEVER THE 
REVELATION THEREOF WOULD PREJUDICE THE 
INTERESTS OF A NATURAL OR JURIDICAL PERSON 
IN TRADE, INDUSTRIAL, FINANCIAL, OR 
COMMERCIAL COMPETITION."
Sec. 6. Sec. 43 of Republic Act No. 9136 is hereby amended to read as follows: 
"Sec. 43. Functions of the ERC - The ERC shall promote 
competition, encourage market development, ensure customer 
choice and penalize abuse of market power in the restructured 
electricity industry. [In-appropriate cases, the ERC is authorized]
THE ERC SHALL HAVE THE AUTHORITY to issue cease and 
desist order, after due notice and hearing. Towards this end, it shall 
be responsible for the following key functions in the restructured 
industry:
a) 
XXX
b) 
Within six (6) months from the effectivity of this Act, AND
REGULARLY THEREAFTER, promulgate, REVIEW OR 
AMEND, WHEN NECESSARY, IN COORDINATION 
WITH THE DOE, and enforce, in accordance with law, THE 
[a] PHILIPPINE [National] Grid Code and THE 
PHILIPPINE [a] Distribution Code which shall include, but 
not limited to, the following:
XXX
f)
[In the public interest] IN THE INTEREST OF THE PUBLIC,
establish and enforce a methodology for setting AND 
BENCHMARKING transmission 7and distribution wheeling 
rates, and retail rates for the captive market of a distribution 
utility, taking into account all relevant considerations, 
including the efficiency or inefficiency of the regulated 
entities, THE MODE OF PROCUREMENT OF NECESSARY
10


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POWER SUPPLY FOR DISTRIBUTION UTILITIES, 
ANCILLARY SERVICES OF TRANSCO OR ITS 
CONCESSIONAIRE, AND COMPLIANCE WITH 
EXISTING DOE AND ERC POLICIES, RULES AND 
REGULATIONS. The rates must be such as to allow the 
recovery of just and reasonable costs and a reasonable return 
on rate base (RORB) to enable the entity to operate viably. 
The ERC may adopt alternative forms of internationally- 
accepted rate-setting methodology AND BENCHMARKING, 
as it may deem appropriate. The rate-setting methodology 
AND BENCHMARKING so adopted and applied must ensure 
a reasonable price of electricity. The rates prescribed shall be 
non-discriminatory, COMPETITIVE AND TRANSPARENT. 
To achieve this objective and to ensure the complete removal 
of cross subsidies, the cap on the recoverable rate of system 
losses prescribed in Section 10 of Republic Act No. 7832, is 
hereby amended and shall be replaced by caps which shall be 
determined by the ERC based on load density, sales mix, cost 
of service, delivery voltage and other technical considerations 
it may promulgate. The ERC shall determine such form or 
rate-setting methodology, which shall promote efficiency. In 
case the rate setting methodology used is RORB, it shall be 
subject to the following guidelines:
XXX
THE ERC SHALL LIKEWISE ESTABLISH A RATE­
SETTING METHODOLOGY FOR NEWLY FRANCHISED 
PRIVATE DISTRIBUTION UTILITIES, TAKING INTO 
ACCOUNT THE SAME FACTORS STATED UNDER THIS 
SUBSECTION, AND ENSURING THAT THE APPLICABLE 
RETAIL RATES AND DISTRIBUTION WHEELING RATES 
ARE DETERMINED WITHIN THE TIMELINE PROVIDED 
IN SECTION 13 OF R.A. 11234, OR THE ENERGY
11


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VIRTUAL ONE-STOP SHOP (EVOSS) ACT, FROM THE 
FILING OF THE RELEVANT APPLICATION.
XXX
i) 
Allow the TRANSCO to charge user fees for ancillary services 
to all electric power industry participants or self-generating 
entities connected to the grid. Such fees shall be 
DETERMINED [fixed] by the ERC after due notice and public 
hearing[.];
j) 
XXX
k) 
Monitor and take measures in accordance with this Act, IN 
COORDINATION WITH THE PCC, to penalize abuse of 
market power, cartelization, and anti-competitive or 
discriminatory behavior by any electric power industry 
participant;
l) 
XXX
m) 
XXX
n) 
XXX
O) 
XXX
P) 
XXX
q) 
XXX
r) 
In the exercise of its investigative and quasi-judicial powers, 
AND IN COORDINATION WITH THE PCC, act against any 
participant or player in the energy sector for violations of any 
law, rule and regulation governing the same, including the 
rules on cross-ownership, anti-competitive practices, abuse of 
market positions and similar or related acts by any participant 
in the energy sector or by any person, as may be provided by 
law, and require any person or entity to submit any report or 
data relative to any investigation or hearing conducted 
pursuant to this Act[.];
s) 
IN COORDINATION WITH THE PCC, [I]inspect, on its 
own or through duly authorized representatives, the premises.
12


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books of accounts and records of any person or entity at any 
time, in the exercise of its quasi-judicial power for purposes 
of determining the existence of any anti-competitive behavior 
and/or market power abuse and any violation of rules and 
regulations issued by the ERC;
t) XXX [and]
U) 
XXX
V) 
TO ORGANIZE AND ADMINISTER THE TRANSMISSION 
GRID RELIABILITY MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE, 
WHICH SHALL BE TASKED TO DEVELOP, IMPROVE, 
AND CONDUCT AUDIT IN COMPLIANCE WITH THE 
GRID CODE AND OTHER RELATED ISSUANCES, TO 
MONITOR AND REPORT TO THE ERC ANY VIOLATIONS 
AGAINST THE TRANSMISSION GRID CODE, TO 
INVESTIGATE AND PROVIDE RESOLUTIONS ON GRID 
SIGNIFICANT INCIDENTS, AND TO RECOMMEND 
PENALTIES FOR NON-CONFORMANCE AND 
VIOLATIONS THEREOF;
w) 
TO ORGANIZE AND ADMINISTER THE DISTRIBUTION 
GRID RELIABILITY MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE, 
WHICH SHALL BE TASKED TO DEVELOP, IMPROVE, 
AND CONDUCT AUDIT IN COMPLIANCE WITH 
DISTRIBUTION RELIABILITY STANDARDS, TO 
MONITOR AND REPORT TO THE ERC ANY VIOLATIONS 
OF THE DISTRIBUTION GRID CODE, TO INVESTIGATE 
AND PROVIDE RESOLUTIONS ON GRID SIGNIFICANT 
INCIDENTS, AND TO RECOMMEND PENALTIES FOR 
NON-COMPLIANCE AND VIOLATIONS THEREOF; AND
x) 
SUMMARILY PUNISH FOR CONTEMPT, BY A FINE NOT 
LESS THAN FIVE THOUSAND PESOS (PHP5,000.00) 
BUT NOT EXCEEDING ONE HUNDRED THOUSAND 
PESOS (PHP100,000.00), IN REAL TERMS, OR BY
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IMPRISONMENT NOT EXCEEDING TEN (10) DAYS, OR 
BOTH, ANY PERSON GUILTY OF ANY ACT INTENDED 
TO INTERRUPT THE HEARING, SESSION, OR ANY 
PROCEEDING BEFORE THE COMMISSION, OR WHEN A 
PERSON REFUSES TO BE SWORN IN AS A WITNESS,
OR TO ANSWER AS SUCH WHEN LAWFULLY REQUIRED 
TO DO SO IN ANY HEARING, SESSION, OR 
INVESTIGATION DULY HELD BY THE COMMISSION,
ITS MEMBERS OR REPRESENTATIVES. TO ENFORCE 
THE PROVISIONS OF THIS SECTION, THE ERC MAY, IF 
NECESSARY, REQUEST THE ASSISTANCE OF THE 
PHILIPPINE NATIONAL POLICE FOR THE EXECUTION 
OF ANY ORDER MADE FOR SAID PURPOSE.
All notices of hearings to be conducted by the ERC for the purpose 
of fixing rates or fees shall be published [twice for two successive 
weeks in two (2) newspapers of nationwide circulation] in at least
ONE (1) NEWSPAPER OF GENERAL CIRCULATION, AND BE 
POSTED ELECTRONICALLY ON THE OFFICIAL WEBSITE OF 
ERC."
Sec. 7. Sec. 44 of Republic Act No. 9136 is hereby amended to read as follows: 
"Sec. 44. [ Transfer of Powers and Functions. - The powers and functions 
of the Energy Regulatory Board not inconsistent with the provisions of 
this Act are hereby transferred to the ERC.] REVIEW BY THE ERC. - 
IN THE EXERCISE OF ITS QUASI-JUDICIAL AND REGULATORY 
FUNCTIONS, THE ERC SHALL IMPLEMENT REGULAR, 
SUMMARY, AND ADMINISTRATIVE PROCEEDINGS, AND OTHER 
PROCESSES THAT SHALL PROMOTE TRANSPARENCY, 
EXPEDIENCY, AND CONSISTENCY."
Sec. 8. New Sections, designated as Sec. 44(A), 44(B), 44(C), 44(E), and 44(D) 
of Republic Act No. 9136, are hereby inserted to read as follows:
"SEC. 44(A). POWER SUPPLY AGREEMENTS. - THE DOE 
SHALL ISSUE THE POLICIES ON THE PROCUREMENT
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PROCESS FOR ANY POWER SUPPLY AGREEMENT, WHICH 
SHALL OBSERVE THE PRINCIPLES OF TRANSPARENCY, 
COMPETITION, ACCOUNTABILITY, IMPARTIALITY, AND 
EFFICIENCY. THE RESULTING POWER SUPPLY 
AGREEMENTS MUST EMBODY THE PRINCIPLES OF 
QUALITY, AFFORDABILITY, SUSTAINABILITY, AND 
RELIABILITY OF SUPPLY OF ELECTRIC POWER.
IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE PROVISIONS OF THIS ACT, 
THE ERC SHALL REVIEW AND APPROVE THE RATES, TERMS 
AND CONDITIONS OF POWER SUPPLY AGREEMENTS THAT 
THE DOE HAS CERTIFIED TO HAVE OBSERVED ITS 
PROCUREMENT POLICIES.
SEC. 44(B). BENCHMARK PRICES, RATES, AND KEY 
PERFORMANCE INDICATORS. - THE ERC SHALL 
DETERMINE THE BENCHMARK FOR THE RANGE OF PRICES, 
RATES, AND KEY PERFORMANCE INDICATORS THAT ARE 
DEEMED REASONABLE FOR BOTH THE END-USERS AND 
THE OPERATIONS OF GENERATION, TRANSMISSION, AND 
DISTRIBUTION ENTITIES: PROVIDED, THAT LOAD 
DENSITY, SALES MIX, COST OF SERVICE, DELIVERY 
VOLTAGE, RESOURCE AND FUEL, LOCATION AND OTHER 
TECHNICAL FACTORS SHALL BE CONSIDERED IN THE 
BENCHMARK DETERMINATION.
THE ERC SHALL PUBLISH, ON ITS OFFICIAL WEBSITE, THE 
BENCHMARK PRICES, RATES, AND KEY PERFORMANCE 
INDICATORS, WHICH SHALL BE REGULARLY REVIEWED 
AND UPDATED AS THE ERC MAY DEEM NECESSARY.
SEC. 44 (C). PROCEEDINGS IN THE ERC. - CASES FILED 
BEFORE THE ERC SHALL BE DECIDED THROUGH REGULAR 
PROCEEDINGS: PROVIDED, THAT CASES RELATED TO
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CONTRACTS OR SUBMISSIONS, INCLUDING POWER 
SUPPLY AGREEMENTS, THAT ARE CERTIFIED BY THE DOE 
PURSUANT TO THIS ACT AND WITHIN THE BENCHMARK 
DETERMINED BY THE ERC SHALL BE DECIDED THROUGH 
SUMMARY PROCEEDINGS, WITHOUT THE NEED OF 
CONDUCTING A HEARING: PROVIDED, FURTHER, THAT 
DECISIONS IN SUMMARY PROCEEDINGS SHALL BE 
LIMITED TO THE DETERMINATION OF COMPLIANCE OF 
THE CONTRACTS OR SUBMISSIONS WITH APPLICABLE 
RULES AND REGULATIONS: PROVIDED, FINALLY, THAT 
UPON DETERMINATION BY THE ERC, OTHER CONTRACTS 
OR SUBMISSIONS MAY BE DECIDED THROUGH SUMMARY 
PROCEEDINGS.
SEC 44 (D). ADMINISTRATIVE DECISIONS. - MATTERS 
FALLING UNDER THE PERMITTING AND LICENSING 
MANDATE OF THE ERC THAT DO NOT REQUIRE THE 
CONDUCT OF A HEARING SHALL BE CLASSIFIED AS 
ADMINISTRATIVE MATTERS AND SHALL BE SUBJECT TO 
ADMINISTRATIVE PROCEEDINGS: PROVIDED, THAT 
ADMINISTRATIVE MATTERS SHALL INCLUDE, BUT NOT 
LIMITED TO, THE FOLLOWING APPLICATIONS OR 
SUBMISSIONS MADE BY ELECTRIC POWER INDUSTRY 
PARTICIPANTS:
I. ANNUAL OR REGULAR SUBMISSIONS, WHETHER ON 
TECHNICAL, LEGAL, OR FINANCIAL MATTERS;
II. SUBMISSIONS AND REPORTS INCLUDED IN THE 
REVIEW FOR REGULATORY RESET: PROVIDED, THAT 
THE REGULATORY RATE RESET PROCESS SHALL BE 
DECIDED THROUGH REGULAR PROCEEDINGS, IN 
ACCORDANCE WITH THE ERC'S POWERS UNDER 
SECTION 43(F) OF THIS ACT;
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III. 
APPLICATIONS FOR THE GRANT OF PROVISIONAL 
APPROVAL FOR PERMITS AND LICENSES TO 
ELECTRIC POWER INDUSTRY PARTICIPANTS: 
PROVIDED, THAT THE SAME SHALL BE SUBJECT TO 
SUBSEQUENT CONFIRMATION BY THE ERC; AND
IV. 
ANY OTHER CONTRACTS, APPLICATIONS, OR 
SUBMISSIONS MADE BY ELECTRIC POWER 
INDUSTRY PARTICIPANTS THAT DO NOT REQUIRE 
THE EXERCISE OF ERC'S QUASI-JUDICIAL 
FUNCTION, AS MAY BE DETERMINED BY THE ERC.
ADMINISTRATIVE PROCEEDINGS SHALL BE DECIDED BY 
THE CHAIRPERSON OF THE ERC: PROVIDED, THAT THE 
CHAIRPERSON MAY DELEGATE THIS AUTHORITY TO A 
MEMBER OF THE COMMISSION OR ANY OFFICER NOT 
LOWER THAN THE LEVEL OF A DIRECTOR.
SEC. 44 (E). RULES AND APPEALS. - THE ERC SHALL ISSUE 
AN ACTION ON ALL APPLICATIONS AND SUBMISSIONS 
MADE IN REGULAR PROCEEDINGS WITHIN TWO 
HUNDRED SEVENTY (270) CALENDAR DAYS FROM THE 
SUBMISSION OF A VALID APPLICATION AS PROVIDED 
UNDER SECTION 13 OF RA 11234 OR THE EVOSS ACT: 
PROVIDED, THAT FOR SUMMARY QUASI-JUDICIAL 
PROCEEDINGS, THE RELEVANT PERIOD SHALL BE SIXTY 
(60) CALENDAR DAYS FROM THE SUBMISSION OF A VALID 
APPLICATION.
FOR APPLICATIONS AND SUBMISSIONS MADE IN 
ADMINISTRATIVE PROCEEDINGS, THE ERC SHALL ISSUE 
AN ACTION WITHIN SIXTY (60) CALENDAR DAYS FROM 
THE SUBMISSION OF ALL DOCUMENTARY REQUIREMENTS, 
AS PROVIDED FOR UNDER SECTION 13 OF RA 11234 OR 
THE EVOSS ACT.
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MOTIONS FOR RECONSIDERATION OF A DECISION 
RENDERED THROUGH REGULAR, SUMMARY, OR 
ADMINISTRATIVE PROCEEDINGS OF THE ERC SHALL BE 
FILED WITHIN FIFTEEN (15) DAYS FROM THE RECEIPT OF 
THE DECISION. THE ERC SHALL RESOLVE THE MOTION 
FOR RECONSIDERATION WITHIN THIRTY (30) DAYS FROM 
RECEIPT OF THE MOTION.
APPEALS SHALL BE FILED IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE 
RULES OF COURT.
WITHIN SIX (6) MONTHS FROM THE EFFECTIVITY OF THIS 
ACT, THE ERC SHALL ISSUE THE RULES OF PROCEDURE 
FOR REGULAR, SUMMARY, AND ADMINISTRATIVE 
PROCEEDINGS, AS PROVIDED FOR IN THIS ACT.
THE RULES OF PROCEDURE TO BE ISSUED BY THE ERC 
SHALL GOVERN ALL CASES FILED AFTER THEIR 
EFFECTIVITY, INCLUDING CASES PENDING AT THE TIME 
OF THEIR ISSUANCE: PROVIDED, THAT THE ERC MAY, IN 
THE INTEREST OF JUSTICE, WAIVE THE APPLICATION OF 
THE NEW RULES TO PENDING CASES IF IT DEEMS THAT 
THEIR APPLICATION WOULD CAUSE UNDUE DELAY, OR 
WOULD WORK INJUSTICE, IN WHICH CASE THE RULES 
UNDER WHICH THE CASES WERE FILED SHALL GOVERN.
Sec. 9. Sec. 45 of Republic Act No. 9136 is hereby amended to read as follows: 
"Sec. 45. Cross Ownership, Market Power Abuse and Anti­
competitive Behavior. - No participant in the electricity industry or 
any other person may engage in any anti-competitive behavior 
including, but not limited to, cross-subsidization, price or market 
manipulation, or other unfair trade practices detrimental to the 
encouragement and protection of contestable markets.
XXX
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To promote true market competition and prevent harmful monopoly 
and market power abuse, the ERC shall enforce the following 
safeguards:
a) XXX
b) Distribution utilities may enter into bilateral power supply 
contracts subject to review by the ERC: Provided, That such 
review shall only be required for distribution utilities whose 
markets have not reached household demand level. For the 
purpose of preventing market power abuse between associated 
firms engaged in generation and distribution, no distribution 
utility shall be allowed to source from bilateral power supply 
contracts more than fifty percent (50%) of its total demand from 
an associated firm engaged in generation but such limitation, 
however, shall not prejudice contracts entered into prior to the 
effectivity of this Act. An associated firm with respect to another 
entity refers to any person which, alone or together with any 
other person, directly or indirectly, through one or more 
intermediaries, controls, is controlled by, or is under common 
control with, such entity: PROVIDED, FURTHER, THAT 
CONTROL, AS DEFINED IN SECTION 49(F) OF REPUBLIC 
ACT NO. 10667, OR THE PHILIPPINE COMPETITION 
ACT, REFERS TO THE ABILITY TO SUBSTANTIALLY 
INFLUENCE OR DIRECT THE ACTIONS OR DECISIONS 
OF AN ENTITY, WHETHER BY CONTRACT, AGENCY, OR 
OTHERWISE.
c) For the first five (5) years from the establishment of the 
wholesale electricity spot market, no distribution utility shall 
source more than ninety percent (90%) of its total demand from 
bilateral power supply contracts.
XXX
The ERC, IN COORDINATION WITH THE PCC, shall within one 
(1) year from the effectivity of this Act, promulgate rules and
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regulations to ensure and promote competition, encourage market 
development and customer choice and discourage/ penalize abuse 
of market power, cartelization and any anti-competitive or 
discriminatory behavior, in order to further the intent of this Act 
and protect the public interest. Such rules and regulations shall 
define the following:
[(a) the relevant markets for purposes of establishing abuse or
misuse of monopoly or market position;]
xxx"
Sec. 10. Sec. 46 of Republic Act No. 9136 is hereby amended to read as follows: 
"Sec. 46. Fines and Penalties. - THE FOLLOWING fines and 
penalties [that] shall be imposed [by the ERC] for any violation of, 
or non-compliance with, THE PROVISIONS OF this Act or ITS 
IRR:
A) ADMINISTRATIVE FINES AND PENALTIES. - BY ANY 
JURIDICAL ENTITIES ENGAGED IN THE GENERATION, 
TRANSMISSION, DISTRIBUTION AND SUPPLY OF 
ELECTRICITY, THE FINE shall range from a minimum of 
FIVE HUNDRED [fifty] thousand pesos (P500,000.00) 
[(P50,000.00)] to a maximum of FIVE HUNDRED [Fifty] 
million pesos (P500,000,000.00) [(P50,000,000.000)].
THE COMMISSION MAY ORDER THAT SUCH AMOUNT OF 
FINES AND PENALTIES IMPOSED FOR VIOLATION OF 
THIS ACT BE IMMEDIATELY APPLIED AS REFUND IN 
THE RATES CHARGED BY THE OFFENDING ENTITY TO 
THE END-USERS AFFECTED BY SUCH VIOLATION OR 
NON-COMPLIANCE.
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THE ERC SHALL PROMULGATE THE SCHEDULE OF 
PENALTIES, WITH CONSIDERATION OF THE 
CIRCUMSTANCES SURROUNDING THE VIOLATION OR 
NON-COMPLIANCE.
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The administrative sanction that may be imposed by the ERC 
shall be without prejudice to the filing of a criminal action, if 
warranted.
B) CRIMINAL AND CIVIL LIABILITIES. - BY ANY PERSON, 
NATURAL OR JURIDICAL, A FINE OF NOT LESS THAN 
FIVE HUNDRED THOUSAND PESOS (PHP500,000.00) 
BUT NOT MORE THAN FIFTY MILLION PESOS 
(PHP50,000,000.00), OR BY IMPRISONMENT OF NOT 
LOWER THAN SIX (6) YEARS AND ONE (1) DAY AND NOT 
HIGHER THAN TWELVE (12) YEARS, OR BOTH, AT THE 
DISCRETION OF THE COURT.
WHEN THE ENTITIES INVOLVED ARE JURIDICAL 
PERSONS, THE PENALTY OF IMPRISONMENT SHALL BE 
IMPOSED ON ITS OFFICERS, DIRECTORS, OR 
EMPLOYEES HOLDING MANAGERIAL POSITIONS, WHO 
ARE KNOWINGLY AND WILLFULLY RESPONSIBLE FOR 
SUCH VIOLATION.
To ensure compliance with this Act, the CRIMINAL AND 
CIVIL PENALTIES [penalty of prision correccional or a fine 
ranging from Five thousand pesos (P5,000.00) to Five million 
pesos (P5,000,000.00), or both, at the discretion of the court,] 
shall be imposed on any person, including but not limited to the 
president, member of the Board, Chief Executive Officer or Chief 
Operating Officer of the corporation, partnership, or any other 
entity involved, found guilty of violating or refusing to comply 
with any provision of this Act or its IRR, other than those 
provided herein.
If the offender is a government official or employee, he OR SHE 
shall, in addition, be dismissed from the government service
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with prejudice to reinstatement and with perpetual or temporary 
disqualification from holding any elective or appointive office.
If the offender is an alien, he OR SHE may, in addition to the 
penalties prescribed, be deported without further proceedings 
after service of sentence.
C) OFFER OF COMPROMISE - ANY PERSON, NATURAL OR 
JURIDICAL, SUBJECT TO AN ADMINISTRATIVE 
PROCEEDING IN THE COMMISSION THAT MAY RESULT 
IN THE IMPOSITION OF FINES, REFUNDS, AND/OR 
PENALTIES, PURSUANT TO THIS SECTION, MAY ENTER 
INTO A COMPROMISE IN WHICH SUCH PERSON OR 
ENTITY DOES NOT ACCEPT NOR DENY RESPONSIBILITY 
FOR THE CHARGES BUT AGREES TO ACCEPT THE 
OBLIGATION TO PAY FINES, REFUNDS, AND/OR 
PENALTIES AS IF ALREADY FOUND LIABLE. THE PLEA 
CANNOT BE USED AGAINST SUCH PERSON OR ENTITY 
TO PROVE LIABILITY IN A CRIMINAL ACTION NOR IN 
ANOTHER CAUSE OF ACTION: PROVIDED, THAT A 
COMPROMISE MAY BE ENTERED ONLY WITH THE PRIOR 
APPROVAL OF THE COMMISSION EN BANC WHICH 
SHALL ACCEPT IT ONLY AFTER WEIGHING ITS EFFECT 
ON THE PARTIES AND THE CONSUMERS: PROVIDED, 
FURTHER, THAT SHOULD THE COMMISSION ACCEPT 
THE PLEA OF NOLO CONTENDERE, THE FINE, REFUND, 
AND/OR PENALTY TO BE ADJUDGED FOR PAYMENT 
SHALL NOT BE LESS THAN FIFTY PERCENT (50%) OF 
THE CORRESPONDING FINE, REFUND AND/OR 
PENALTY FOR THE SUBJECT OFFENSE: PROVIDED, 
FURTHER, THAT ANY PERSON OR ENTITY CAN NOT 
ENTER INTO A COMPROMISE FOR A VIOLATION OF ITS 
FRANCHISE OR CERTIFICATE OF PUBLIC CONVENIENCE
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AND NECESSITY, AND SUCH OTHER CASES AS 
DETERMINED BY THE COMMISSION: PROVIDED, 
FINALLY, THAT THE COMMISSION SHALL ISSUE 
GUIDELINES FOR THIS PROVISION, SUBJECT TO 
PUBLIC CONSULTATION.
D) ROLE OF THE DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE (DOJ) - CIVIL 
AND CRIMINAL ACTIONS AND PROCEEDINGS 
INSTITUTED ON BEHALF OF THE GOVERNMENT UNDER 
THE AUTHORITY OF THIS ACT OR OTHER LAWS 
ENFORCED BY THE ERC SHALL BE BROUGHT IN THE 
NAME OF THE GOVERNMENT OF THE PHILIPPINES AND 
SHALL BE PROSECUTED AND HANDLED BY THE ERC 
WITH THE ASSISTANCE OF THE DOJ: PROVIDED, THAT 
THE DETERMINATION OF THE EXISTENCE OF PROBABLE 
CAUSE AND THE SUBSEQUENT FILING OF ANY 
CRIMINAL OR CIVIL CASE WITH THE PROPER COURT 
AGAINST VIOLATORS OF THIS ACT SHALL EXCLUSIVELY 
BELONG TO THE DOJ: PROVIDED, FURTHER, THAT NO 
CIVIL OR CRIMINAL ACTION FOR THE RECOVERY OF 
DUTIES OR THE ENFORCEMENT OF ANY FINE, PENALTY 
OR FORFEITURE UNDER THIS ACT SHALL BE FILED IN 
COURT WITHOUT THE APPROVAL OF THE ERC.
E) ADJUSTMENT OF FINES AND PENALTIES - THE FINES 
AND PENALTIES MAY BE ADJUSTED TO ITS PRESENT 
VALUE EVERY FIVE (5) YEARS USING THE CONSUMER 
PRICE INDEX (CPI) AS PUBLISHED BY THE PHILIPPINE 
STATISTICS AUTHORITY, 
xxx"
Sec. 11. Separability Clause. - If any portion of this Act is declared invalid or 
unconstitutional, other provisions hereof shall remain in full force and effect.
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Sec. 12. Repealing Clause. - All laws, decrees, rules and regulations, or portion 
thereof, inconsistent with this Act are hereby repealed or modified accordingly, without 
prejudice to Republic Act No. 10667, otherwise known as the Philippine Competition 
Act.
Sec. 13. Implementing Rules and Regulations. - The DOE and ERC shall, in 
consultation with relevant government agencies and all stakeholders, promulgate the 
Implementing Rules and Regulation (IRR) of the Act within six (6) months from the 
effectivity of this Act.
Sec. 14. Effectivity. - This Act shall take effect fifteen (15) days after its 
publication in the Official Gazette or in a newspaper of general circulation.
Approved,
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