MANILA — Allegations under the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act (Republic Act No. 3019) have resurfaced against Alfredo J. Non, the former commissioner of the Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC), marking the second round of legal challenges.

Atty. Paris Real, a MERALCO consumer, and intervenor in various MERALCO cases, disclosed that the charges revolve around Non’s purported negligence and inexcusable failure to address the regulatory reset process of MERALCO and other Distribution Utilities (DUs).

Non, who served as the officer-in-charge of the ERC from June 30, 2015, until the appointment of a new chairman in 2017, and also acted as the oversight commissioner overseeing public consultations and hearings on rate-setting rules, now faces accusations of not fulfilling his duties.

The complaint alleges that Non neglected to conduct the regulatory reset process during his tenure, resulting in DUs nationwide operating with outdated distribution rates for over seven years.

Atty. Real emphasized that Non’s negligence adversely impacted consumers, leading to overcharged power rates.

He highlighted that the lack of timely adjustments during regulatory periods resulted in excessive charges, which were only rectified when MERALCO initiated a refund to customers in 2021.

Real argued that Non’s failure to address these issues during his term deprived consumers of fair and reasonable rates.

The complaint filed before the Ombudsman contends that Non, despite being out of office, should be held accountable for his inactions that adversely affected consumers.

Atty. Real underscored the significance of post-term accountability, asserting that Non’s failure to act promptly during his tenure constitutes a disservice to Filipino consumers.

Given Non’s prior suspension in 2017 for violating RA 3019 and his alleged involvement in corruption within the ERC, the complaint recommends the stripping of all retirement and gratuity benefits.

Non’s track record suggests a pattern of misconduct, including ties to the corruption scandal that led to the suicide of former ERC director Francisco Jose Villa Jr.

(ai/mnm)