Palace announced the appointment of Francis Saturnino Juan as the new Chairperson of the Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC).

In a press briefing on Thursday, Presidential Communications Office Undersecretary Claire Castro the appointment of Juan will take effect on August 8.

"Assistant Energy Expert Atty. Juan brings with him decades of experience in regulatory affairs having previously served as executive director and general counsel of the ERC and currently as President of the Independent Electricity Market Operator of the Philippines," she said.

Castro emphasized that Juan "has played a key role in operationalizing the Wholesale Electricity Spot Market, advocating consumer protection and promoting renewable energy development through tariff reforms."

"With his deep institutionalized knowledge and leadership, we are confident that Chairperson Juan will stir the ERC toward more efficient, transparent and pro-consumer decision-making. We look forward to a smooth and seamless transition under his chairmanship," she added.

The ERC sets and enforces rules and regulations for the electricity industry, including those related to transmission, distribution, and retail sales.

The appointment of Juan was announced after the Palace confirmed the "irrevocable resignation" of ERC Chairperson Monalisa Dimalanta.

Castro also announced the appointments of Amante Liberato and Paris Real as ERC Commissioners.

"Atty. Liberato is currently serving as Deputy Executive Secretary for Finance and Administration at the Office of the President. A lawyer and Certified Public Accountant, he brings extensive experience in public finance, legal reform and governance having previously served with the Commission on Audit and in various consultancy roles across the legislative and executive branches. His strong background in fiscal management and regulatory policy will be vital in supporting institutional reforms within the ERC," said Castro.

"Atty. Paris Real meanwhile is a seasoned litigator and a legal adviser with more than two decades of experience including active participation in high impact ERC regulatory proceedings for more than 10 years. He is known for his focus on legal integrity, consumer protection that is expected to strengthen the Commission’s quasi-judicial processes," she added. Robina Asido/DMS