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This refers to the story titled, “Meralco to start P1.5-B refund in January.” (Philippine Daily Inquirer, 8/19/08) Despite the order for Manila Electric Co. (Meralco) to refund meter deposits, consumers are still being treated like idiots. A few weeks ago, it was announced that Meralco would implement a one-peso/kWh increase in our electric bills.

Since the refund has yet to take effect next year, Meralco can very well generate this refund money from our own payments, thus ensuring that its profits are kept intact. Where is Meralco’s so-called corporate responsibility? It is a monopoly mulcting its way to financial comfort. Its own comfort, I might add.

Each time the government tries to put a leash on Meralco, it immediately cries foul and says that it’s the Marcoses all over again. Its press release of announcing the refund is an insult to the intelligence of honest, hardworking, taxpaying Filipinos.

ARPEE LAZARO (via email)

• Meralco bucks plan to reduce systems loss caps
• Getting ready for Round 2
• Treating consumers like idiots
• Another P1 per liter fuel price rollback
• Gov’t says P18.25/kilo rice only for ‘poorest of poor’
• Budget-conscious buyers troop to Colon, Carbon for bargains
• Leyte folk switch to prepaid electricity
• Fuel prices cut by P1 per liter
• Energy demand seen doubling in 20 years

• Ex-negotiator now a busy entrepreneur
• Have P100K? Get a mobile veggie cart
• Japanese firm helps youth fulfill dreams