Awareness of Consumers on the Rights and Obligations of Residential Electricity as Implications for Intervention

This chapter presents the background of the study, the theoretical and conceptual framework, schematic diagram, statement of the problem, hypotheses, significance, scope and limitations, and definition of terms.
Background of the study
Electricity is an essential public utility that supports household activities, economic development, and social well-being. It provides energy needed for education, healthcare, communication, and livelihood, making reliable and affordable electricity an important factor in improving quality of life. In the Philippines, 94.8 percent of households use electricity, reflecting its significant role in the daily activities of Filipino families (Philippine Statistics Authority [PSA], 2025; International Energy Agency [IEA], 2021).
The continuous growth in population, urbanization, and economic activities has increased electricity demand, requiring the energy sector to maintain a reliable supply while ensuring accessibility and affordability. In response, the Philippine government has implemented programs and policies to improve the efficiency, sustainability, and reliability of the power sector (Department of Energy [DOE], 2023).
Along with ensuring electricity availability, protecting consumer welfare has become an important responsibility of regulators and distribution utilities. Consumer protection includes transparent billing, fair service delivery, accountability, and effective mechanisms for addressing consumer concerns (Pepino et al., 2021; Abrigo & Ortiz, 2024).
To strengthen these protections, the Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) implemented the Magna Carta for Residential Electricity Consumers (MCREC) under Republic Act No. 9136 or the Electric Power Industry Reform Act of 2001 (EPIRA). The MCREC defines the rights and obligations of residential consumers and the responsibilities of electricity providers to promote fairness, transparency, and accountability in electricity services (DOE, n.d.; ERC, 2024).
In a highly urbanized city, electricity remains a vital service for households' daily living and economic activities. However, limited information is available regarding the level of awareness of residential electricity consumers about their rights and obligations under the MCREC. Understanding consumer awareness is necessary to identify knowledge gaps and develop appropriate educational interventions.
Thus, this study determines the level of awareness of residential electricity consumers in a highly urbanized city regarding their rights and obligations under the Magna Carta for Residential Electricity Consumers. The findings will serve as a basis for an intervention program aimed at strengthening consumer education, promoting responsible electricity use, and enhancing consumer protection.

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