High cost of electricity: Rappler decodes disinformation targeting 4Ps

CHEERS TO Rappler’s data-driven report for exposing the coordinated disinformation campaign targeting beneficiaries of the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps). Published on May 5, Christa Escudero dismantled the viral narrative that blamed the country’s poorest for rising electricity costs due to the “lifeline rate subsidy” program (LRSP).

As electricity bills spiked during the summer months, a surge of social media posts circulated, claiming that the “LRSP” — a discount given to low-income households — was the primary reason for the higher rates charged to regular consumers. The posts framed the 4Ps beneficiaries as a burden to the middle class, sparking the explosion of online vitriol, expressing anger and resentment against the poor.

Rappler investigated the origin of these claims, reviewing the flow of news and the narrative that this spread across  Facebook and other platforms. The report said: “Most of these reactions were negative, saying that the Lifeline Rate caused the spikes in electric bills, even when it actually constitutes a minuscule percentage of the total charges.” 

To assess the impact of online anger, Rappler used digital forensics and data visualization to map the main sources. The report identified the specific Facebook pages and groups that acted as “superspreaders” of the disinformation and online anger, using network graphs and screenshots.  

To further clarify the issue, it also analyzed Meralco’s generation charges, showing that it was the higher amounts being charged for generation that had escalated electricity bills.

Why Is This Important

This report did well to protect a vulnerable sector from being scapegoated for larger socio-economic problems. It is easy to believe that the burden of higher utility costs is due to the failure of the poor to pay for the electricity they use, causing resentment on the part of those paying higher charges. 

The public easily accepts the premise that they are paying for higher costs for electricity because the poor can’t pay their share; but not entirely without anger and resentment. The report shows that such negative feelings are misplaced, clarifying that the poor should not be blamed by pointing to the policies and market conditions that dictate energy prices.  

By decoding the “who” and “how” of the disinformation campaign against the poor, Rappler has done justice to 4Ps beneficiaries, as it describes other forces and issues involved in the price of energy.

This report is an example of how journalism can counter the blame game that so easily targets certain sectors of society. It also shows how the use of technology can help to clarify complex issues. 

Assigning blame is easy. What Filipinos must learn to do is understand the various causes and the complex solutions to be considered. The high cost of living, including the cost of electricity, will continue to be the subject of news. Reporting on these matters forces politicians and public officials to look into the long-term solutions they must consider.