Supreme Court Affirms MORE Power's Expansion in Iloilo Province

ILOILO CITY - The Supreme Court of the Philippines has definitively ruled in favor of the expansion initiative by MORE Electric and Power Corporation (MORE Power), a subsidiary of the Razon Group, into several areas of Iloilo province. This ruling, released on June 13, 2025, stems from a resolution dated May 20, which dismissed motions for reconsideration submitted by three local electric cooperatives—ILECO I, ILECO II, and ILECO III—as well as the Philippine Rural Electric Cooperatives Association Inc. (PHILRECA).

According to the Supreme Court's en banc decision, "No substantial arguments were presented to warrant the reversal of the decision." The ruling confirms the validity of Republic Act No. 11918, which extends MORE Power's franchise from Iloilo City to 15 towns and one component city within the province, where these areas are currently serviced by the aforementioned electric cooperatives.

The three ILECOs contended that the expansion would be unconstitutional, claiming it would result in a monopoly over power distribution in the province. They argued that the legislation undermines competition and could lead to increased electricity costs for consumers in the long term. However, MORE Power's President and CEO, Roel Z. Castro, expressed gratitude for the Supreme Court's ruling, emphasizing its alignment with the public's demand for more reliable and affordable electricity services. Castro stated, "We’re grateful that the Supreme Court has upheld the rule of law and the will of the people."

The push for MORE Power's expansion began in 2021 in response to growing public dissatisfaction regarding the quality and pricing of power utility services in Iloilo province. Many residents and stakeholders have voiced concerns about the existing cooperatives' inability to deliver reliable electricity, which has prompted calls for reform in the local energy sector.

The Supreme Court's decision also highlights the significant legal and regulatory landscape surrounding energy distribution in the Philippines. The expansion of MORE Power is seen as a potential catalyst for increased competition, which could lead to improved services and lower rates for consumers. Dr. Maria Elena Santos, an expert in energy policy at the University of the Philippines, noted in her 2024 study published in the Philippine Journal of Public Policy that increased competition in the energy sector often results in better service delivery and lower prices for consumers.

Despite the positive implications for consumers, the ruling has drawn criticism from various quarters. The ILECOs and PHILRECA maintain that this decision could set a concerning precedent for future energy distribution regulations in the Philippines. They argue that the expansion undermines the cooperative model that has historically served rural areas and could lead to job losses within the cooperatives.

As the energy landscape in Iloilo evolves, stakeholders are keenly observing how MORE Power implements its expansion strategy. The company has committed to investing in infrastructure improvements and enhancing service reliability across the newly acquired areas. Moreover, the implications of this ruling may extend beyond Iloilo, potentially influencing energy policies and frameworks throughout the Philippines, especially in rural regions where energy access remains a critical issue.

In conclusion, the Supreme Court's affirmation of MORE Power's expansion marks a pivotal moment in the Philippines' energy sector, raising important questions about competition, service delivery, and regulatory practices. As MORE Power prepares to operationalize its expanded franchise, its effectiveness in addressing consumer needs and enhancing energy accessibility will be scrutinized closely, both by local stakeholders and the broader public.

The future of energy distribution in Iloilo and potentially the entire nation may hinge on how this expansion unfolds in the coming years.