Legazpi city: The city government here is set to provide a one-time PHP300 electricity subsidy to more than 44,000 households, as part of its efforts to ease the financial burden on residents amid rising utility costs, officials said Monday.

According to Philippines News Agency, Mayor Hisham Ismail announced that the subsidy will cover all residential meter holders in the city, including those under the Barangay Power Association (BAPA). "The city government of Legazpi will give a one-time PHP300 electric subsidy to all residential meter holders in the city. Based on data from the Albay Electric Cooperative (Aleco), there are more than 44,000 households, but I requested that those under BAPA be included, so the number of beneficiaries may increase by another 1,000 to 2,000," Ismail said.

He noted that the total number of beneficiaries may reach around 46,000 to 47,000 households, covering consumers across all income classes. "This will cover all Aleco consumers, whether rich, poor, or middle class. There will be no long lines because this will be directly downloaded to Aleco and automatically deducted from the electricity bill," Ismail stated.

The subsidy will be reflected on billing statements under the city government's name, aiming for transparency and consumer awareness. Ismail emphasized the program's accessibility, stating, "This is a very good program - no lines, people-centered, no inconvenience, and at the same time for everyone."

The mayor mentioned that the city government is expediting the program's implementation in collaboration with Aleco and the Sangguniang Panlungsod. Once approved, the subsidy is expected to cover electricity consumption for April and will be reflected in consumers' May billing.

Residents have expressed their approval of the initiative, acknowledging its immediate impact on household expenses. Chona Bayna, a resident of Mabinit, shared her appreciation for the assistance. "I am very thankful because we were given a PHP300 discount. It really helps because it reduces what we have to pay. The PHP300 that I will save can be used for my child's transportation to school, which is already a big help," she said.

Bayna also pointed out that the subsidy comes at a crucial time when electricity consumption tends to increase due to the hot weather. "This will really help reduce our expenses," she added.