MANILA, Philippines — February 14, 2026. President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. announced that Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) beneficiaries consuming up to 50 kilowatt-hours (kWh) of electricity per month will now receive a 100 percent discount on their Meralco bills under the government’s Lifeline Rate Subsidy Program.

Speaking at a Meralco event in Pasig City, Marcos said the automatic registration of 4Ps households into the subsidy program begins this month, ensuring that millions of low-income families will benefit without having to undergo the previously stringent application process. 

“As of November 2025, only 334,400 were registered for electricity subsidies, which is around 11 percent of the 3 million 4Ps beneficiaries. That was because of the stringent requirements for the program,” the President explained.

The Lifeline Rate Subsidy Program provides discounted electricity rates to qualified consumers, particularly households consuming less than 100 kWh monthly. Under the new directive, 4Ps families consuming 50 kWh or below will enjoy a full waiver of their electricity charges. 

Other households not enrolled in 4Ps but with at least five members, a combined monthly income of ₱12,030 or less, and consumption below 100 kWh may also qualify for partial subsidies.

Marcos emphasized that the initiative is part of his administration’s broader effort to make electricity more affordable and accessible. “Sa madaling salita: mas malinaw ang patakaran at mas mabilis ang proseso. This Administration will continue to work hard and hand in hand with the private sector in crafting processes and policies that make electricity accessible, affordable, and reliable,” he said.

The automatic inclusion of 4Ps households is expected to significantly expand the reach of the subsidy program, easing the financial burden of electricity costs for millions of poor families. Energy officials said the move also aligns with the government’s commitment to social protection and equitable access to essential services.

This development highlights the administration’s push to strengthen energy affordability measures, particularly for marginalized communities, while encouraging broader participation in programs that promote sustainable and inclusive growth.