Business owners and anyone handling household finances should be well aware about the bills coming their way during the Enhanced Community Quarantine (ECQ). Here is a summary of the payment extensions available.
Rent Payments
Under DTI Memorandum Circular 20-12:
- 30-day grace period for rent falling within ECQ without penalties or interest
- Cumulative rents from ECQ period amortized over 6 months
- Available to residential tenants and MSME commercial space tenants (assets under ₱100M)
- No evictions enforceable during the 30-day grace period after ECQ lifting
- Penalties for non-compliant lessors: minimum ₱10,000 fine or 2 months imprisonment
Electricity
Energy Regulatory Commission directed utilities to provide grace periods. Meralco offered extended payment dates.
Water Services
Manila Water announced 30-day payment extensions. Bills were calculated using 3-month average consumption.
Loans
SEC mandated 30-day grace periods for personal, housing, motor vehicle, and credit card payments.
Telecommunications
Smart, PLDT, and Globe provided 30-day payment extensions for postpaid subscribers.
Government Contributions
- SSS contributions extended to June 1
- PhilHealth employer contributions extended to May 31