REINSTATED Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) chief Monalisa Dimalanta proposed that all five commissioners be granted immunity from suit similar to what is being applied to the Philippine Competition Commission (PCC).
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As a former ERC commissioner, I understans the feelings of Chair Dimalanta about having to be subjected to unnecessary suits while in office. I agree it could be a big drain in resources and, sometimes even humiliation for something you are not guilty of.
But I do not agree to the chair’s claim that having immunity from suits would enhance the ERC governance structurs.
. ON THE CONTRARY, IT WILL NOT.
If the commissioners cannot be held accountable for theur actions, the more difficult it will be tp preserve integrity in the organization. Utility companies can be bolder to manipulate the already monopolized market in their favor with secret dealings with commissioners.
As it is, it is already difficult enough ti bting erring cimmussioners to justice. The more difficult it will be for consumers to protect themselves against corruption in office.
In the history of the ERC, how nany times have you heard of any commissioner being been found guilty? I know only once and you are afraid fir yourself?
Duribf my term, we have been subjected to cases with OMB, OP and. Also in the courts. I remember 12 cases whicc cobtinued even after my retirement. We were able to get off all the cases now unscathed. Only because we were not guiltu.
And that is the most important thing they have to preserve – honesty and integrity. No amount of cases can hurt that.
Your experience as a former ERC commissioner offers valuable insight. Thanks for reminding us of the importance of integrity and transparency in public service.