Representatives of different sectors in Catanduanes have denounced the recent petition filed by the National Power Corporation’s Small Power Utilities Group (NPC-SPUG) which would "unjustifiably" raise power rates to an "exorbitant" P14.5843 per kilowatt-hour, on top of other charges. In expressing their strong objection to the 4th Generation Rate Adjustment Mechanism (GRAM), the groups said the amount is too burdensome for the populace to endure given the prevailing hardships due to the economic slowdown and feeble demand for abaca fiber. "We are terribly afraid that the 4th GRAM’s effect, if implemented, would deprive a number of consumers, since one who consumes 100 kWh a month will then pay around P1,500 or almost 260% more than the old bill. This is certainly heavy to carry," the petition stated. Saying that NPC-SPUG would have other means to generate funds to cover for the uncollected expenses in previous years and for allotments in ensuing years, the petitioners requested the NPC-SPUG and the Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) to waive the implementation of the 4th GRAM so as not to burden the consumers. Among the prominent signatories were Bishop Manolo delos Santos, PSMEDC chair Rene Abella, DE Ignacio Odiaman of CACGO, Mayor Leo Mendoza of the LMP, ABC federation president PBM Joseph Mendoza, Atty. Greg Sarmiento, Jr. of the Rotary Club of Virac, and Councilor Eulogio Talaran Jr.