High court rules with finality on MORE Power's expansion

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ILOILO CITY — The Supreme Court has issued a ruling, upholding the constitutionality of the expanded franchise of MORE Electric and Power Corp. (MORE Power), officially allowing the company to extend its services beyond Iloilo City.

In a resolution dated May 20 and received by both parties on June 13, the en banc denied with finality the motions for reconsideration filed by the Iloilo Electric Cooperative I, the Philippine Rural Electric Cooperatives Association and other petitioners.

The high court stated that it had thoroughly reviewed and resolved the key legal issues raised and found no compelling arguments to reverse its earlier decision.

"The Court resolved [...] to deny with finality the said motions for reconsideration as this Court has passed upon the basic issues raised therein and no substantial arguments were presented to warrant the reversal of the questioned decision," the notice read.

MORE Power president Roel Castro welcomed the ruling, calling it a win for the people and the rule of law.

"This ruling is a victory for consumers who have been waiting for two years to access modern, reliable and efficient electric service," Castro said.

He added that MORE Power is preparing to implement its expansion in phases over the next four to five years with plans to upgrade infrastructure, improve power reliability and enhance customer services in its new coverage areas.

"Electricity is a basic need. This decision enables us to serve more communities that deserve better power services," Castro added.

The expansion follows the enactment of Republic Act 11918 in July 2022, which amended MORE Power's original franchise to allow it to operate in 15 towns in Iloilo province and the component city of Passi.

These towns are Alimodian, Anilao, Banate, Barotac Nuevo, Dingle, Dueñas, Dumangas, Leganes, Leon, New Lucena, Pavia, San Enrique, San Miguel, Santa Barbara and Zarraga.

Petitioners had argued that the expanded franchise violated provisions of the Electric Power Industry Reform Act and sought to block its implementation.

However, the Supreme Court reaffirmed Congress' legislative authority to grant, amend, or expand public utility franchises, emphasizing that such privileges are not exclusive and should prioritize public welfare.

Since taking over Iloilo City's power distribution in 2019, MORE Power has invested heavily in modernizing the grid and reducing power outages, theft and system losses.

MORE Power has touted its improvements to the city, including higher system efficiency, better customer care, and transparent billing as proof of its capability to deliver modern, competitive services.