NASECORE Seeks FOI Clarification from IEMOP on Market Transaction Fee Disclosure
The National Association of Electricity Consumers for Reforms, Inc. (NASECORE) has formally sought clarification from the Independent Electricity Market Operator of the Philippines (IEMOP) regarding the status and handling of its earlier request for information on Market Transaction Fees (MTF) collected in the Wholesale Electricity Spot Market (WESM.
In a letter dated 21 January 2026, addressed to Engr. Robinson P. Descanzo, President and CEO of IEMOP, NASECORE responded to IEMOP’s notice that the request was “currently under review” and forwarded to internal departments to ensure compliance with data-sharing policies.
Clarifying FOI Obligations and Process
While acknowledging IEMOP’s receipt of the request, NASECORE emphasized the need for clear and transparent guidance on how internal data-sharing policies align with the government’s Freedom of Information (FOI) framework under Executive Order No. 2 (s. 2016).
Specifically, NASECORE requested clarification on the following key points:
- Applicable Data-Sharing Policy
- What specific data-sharing policy is being cited by IEMOP; and
- Whether such policy restricts the disclosure of aggregated data, methodologies, allocation principles, or policy documents of the type requested in NASECORE’s 12 January 2026 letter.
- Interaction with FOI Requirements
- How internal IEMOP policies interface with the disclosure obligations under EO No. 2 (s. 2016); and
- Whether any FOI exemption is being invoked as a basis for delay, partial disclosure, or non-disclosure.
- FOI Processing Status and Timelines
- Whether the request is being treated as a formal FOI request;
- The applicable response period under FOI rules; and
- The expected release date of the requested information, or any lawful extension thereof.
Why This Clarification Matters to Consumers
NASECORE reiterated that its request does not seek proprietary bidding data, transaction-level offers, or commercially sensitive information. Instead, it seeks:
- Aggregated figures on MTF collection;
- Computation and allocation methodologies; and
- Policy references governing Market Transaction Fees.
While MTFs are initially collected from market participants, these costs are economically recovered through electricity charges ultimately paid by captive consumers, including residential households. As such, the information directly concerns consumer-borne costs and falls squarely within the objectives of transparency, informed policy discussion, and consumer protection recognized under both the FOI program and the EPIRA framework.
A Call for Cooperative and Transparent Engagement
NASECORE stressed that the clarification request was submitted in the spirit of cooperation, with full respect for IEMOP’s role as market operator. At the same time, it underscored that transparency obligations to consumers—who ultimately shoulder the costs of market operations—must be duly observed and clearly explained.
A copy of the letter was furnished to the Department of Energy, in line with its oversight role and its mandate to promote transparency and consumer protection in the electricity sector.
NASECORE’s Position
Transparency in market fees is not a procedural formality—it is a consumer right.
Clear FOI processes and timely disclosure of aggregated market cost information are essential to:
- Public understanding of electricity pricing;
- Credible regulatory and policy discussions; and
- Ensuring accountability in institutions that manage and administer the power market.
NASECORE will continue to pursue clarity and transparency on electricity costs that directly affect Filipino consumers.