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Friday, March 29, 2024

Lawmaker urges Iloilo court to decide on PECO’s case

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A lawmaker has expressed optimism the Iloilo court will expedite the resolution of the case involving beleaguered distribution utility Panay Electric Company.

Iloilo Rep. Julliene Baronda said the long dispute over the right to provide the city’s power supply did not only affect the residential consumers but could damage Iloilo’s reputation as an investment and tourism destination.

Baronda made the appeal to Iloilo Regional Trial Court Branch 35 Judge Daniel Antonio Gerardo Amular in light with his November decision suspending the expropriation proceeding over the assets of PECO, the city’s former power franchise holder.

Baronda earlier expressed dismay over PECO’s operations citing numerous complaints that includes questionable billings, high rates and poor customer service.

“I have seen the highs and lows of PECO’s service. I have seen and heard the Ilonggos’ lamentations. Ninety-six years is a long time and is more than enough opportunity to perfect one’s act,” Baronda, vice chairperson of the House Committee on Transportation, said.

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Baronda said that it’s with the Iloilo court to decide on the expropriation case but she prays that the esteemed Judge will look into the merits thoroughly.

“I would rather that we wait for the decision than issue statements that might be construed as sub judice or intrusive into the province of the judiciary. But I pray that the esteemed judge handling the case will look into the merits thoroughly and will come up with a verdict that is beneficial to the Ilonggo people” Baronda said.

Judge Amular recently requested the Supreme Court that the expropriation case against PECO be transferred outside Iloilo City because it has become too politicized

“The case has been observed to become too politicized. It may be respectfully suggested for the best interest of the parties…that this case be transferred outside the jurisdiction of the Regional Trial Court of Iloilo to be tried and heard by the designated judge therein” Amular said in a 3 page letter to SC Court Administrator Midas Marquez. 

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