Visayan Electric shields consumers, limiting August rate adjustment to P0.06/kWh versus projected P2.10/kWh
CEBU CITY, Philippines — August 20, 2026 — Following close coordination with the Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC), partner power suppliers, and the implementation of mitigation measures, Visayan Electric has successfully shielded its residential consumers from a multi-peso price spike in this month's billing cycle.
Through these decisive interventions, the utility limited the August rate adjustment to a minimal ₱0.06 per kilowatt-hour (kWh)— versus a projected ₱2.10/kWh spike driven by severe regional grid shortages.
As a result, the overall residential rate for August settles at ₱14.96/kWh, insulating Metro Cebu households from what would have otherwise been a heavy ₱17.00/kWh rate.
For a typical household consuming 200 kWh per month, Visayan Electric’s intervention means paying just ₱12 more on their monthly bill—effectively saving families an estimated ₱420 in potential added costs this month.
The rate adjustment is primarily driven by surging prices in the Wholesale Electricity Spot Market (WESM), higher transmission charges resulting from increased ancillary services cost, and an ongoing power supply deficiency across the Visayas Grid. Despite these external pressures, Visayan Electric continues to work proactively to insulate its customers from severe price swings.
Visayan Electric President and General Manager Mark Anthony Kindica emphasized the company's commitment to prioritizing consumer welfare through these regional grid challenges.
“We understand the importance of every peso to our customers, which is why Visayan Electric continuously works to optimize our power sourcing and keep rate adjustments to an absolute minimum. As we enter the 'Ber' months, we remain hopeful that cooler seasonal temperatures will help lower overall grid demand, stabilize market prices, and bring welcome relief to our consumers' monthly bills,” said Kindica.
To help you manage electricity consumption and maximize savings during fluctuating grid rates, Visayan Electric encourages you to adopt these simple energy-saving habits:
Optimize Cooling: Set air conditioners to 24°C–25°C for the ideal balance between comfort and efficiency.
Unplug Idle Devices: Reduce phantom power consumption by unplugging appliances when not in use.
Monitor Your Usage: Leverage the Visayan Electric Appliance Calculator available at www.visayanelectric.com to accurately estimate your household electricity costs.
Report Illegal Connections: Help combat electricity theft by reporting anonymously via:
Cell: 09277955258
Email: rpd@visayanelectric.com
Online: https://tinyurl.com/ym8mu3wn
Visayan Electric remains dedicated to delivering safe, reliable, and reasonably priced power, while providing continuous support and guidance to its customers.
About Visayan Electric
Visayan Electric Company, Inc. is the largest private electric distribution utility in the Visayas, serving Metro Cebu and neighboring municipalities. It is a member of the Aboitiz Power Distribution Utilities (APDU) group, which includes Davao Light, Cotabato Light, and the EnerZone group of utilities. Visayan Electric is committed to delivering safe, reliable, and reasonably priced electricity to its franchise areas.
