The CNMI Supreme Court has ruled that the increased rates from July 22, 2006 to Oct. 24, 2006, implemented through an executive order signed by Gov. Benigno R. Fitial, was unconstitutional.
In his letter to CUC Executive Director Antonio Muna, Hocog, R-Rota, also asked for the exact amount CUC illegally billed his constituents on Rota.
The senator also wants to know what plan CUC will implement to “rectify the defects.”
The high court decision favored Rep. Stanley T. Torres and Jack A. Angello who filed a petition against CUC’s rate increase.
Yesterday, when sought for comment, Torres, R-Saipan, said he had yet to read the court order.
“I am still waiting for the copy,” he added.
Muna earlier said that CUC’s legal counsel was still assessing the impact of the court decision.
CUC, he added, will address the situation because “we know there are people who will also ask that they will be afforded the same treatment as Torres and Angello.”
In an interview, Rota resident Andrew Barcinas said CUC should recalculate the illegal rates it imposed on customers.
“I will support Senator Hocog’s letter,” he said.
In 2006, Barcinas said they were charged an average of $230 every month for power consumption.
He said he is not satisfied with the services of CUC, adding that last month their water rate was raised.
Before the increase, he said, they were paying only $40 to $45 every month. They now pay $50 to $70.
