Bacolod City Achieves Prestigious 5-Star DOE Rating for Energy Management Excellence
The Department of Energy has officially recognized Bacolod City with its highest possible five-star rating under the Government Energy Management Program. This prestigious acknowledgment came following a rigorous random spot-check inspection conducted at the Bacolod City Government Center on April 15, 2026.
Exceptional Compliance and Leadership Recognition
The inspection team, led by Chammer Jake Plaza, Supervising Science Research Specialist for DOE Visayas, along with Clemente Desoacido Jr. and John Dale Quinonesto, documented an impressive 98 percent compliance rate. The DOE specifically commended the local government for its outstanding performance in implementing energy efficiency and conservation measures throughout municipal operations.
Mayor Greg Gasataya's proactive leadership was directly credited for this achievement. Prior to the national fuel crisis, Gasataya issued Executive Order 11 on February 13, 2026, mandating comprehensive energy-saving initiatives across all city departments and offices.
Structural Implementation and Best Practices
The DOE highlighted Bacolod's institutional approach to energy conservation, particularly noting the establishment of a dedicated Energy Efficiency and Conservation Division. This specialized unit is headed by Dr. Mary Jean Ramos, with Engr. Christian Joyd Alabia serving as EEC focal person and Engr. Kate Sumande as EEC coordinator.
Plaza emphasized that Bacolod demonstrated exceptional compliance with specific provisions of Executive Order 11, including the requirement that all office air conditioning units be set no lower than 24 degrees Celsius. This regulation represents just one component of the city's comprehensive energy management strategy.
Substantial Financial Savings for Taxpayers
The practical impact of these energy conservation measures has been substantial. City records reveal that more than P250,000 in taxpayer funds were saved in just one month through reduced electricity costs alone.
"Every peso entrusted to us belongs to the people," Mayor Gasataya stated. "By saving on utility costs, we ensure that these funds are used responsibly and can be redirected toward meaningful programs and essential services that Bacolodnons truly need."
The financial benefits are particularly evident when comparing consumption data. Last year, the city's average monthly electricity consumption exceeded 80,000 kilowatt-hours, costing taxpayers approximately P1.1 million. In March 2026, following implementation of these energy measures, consumption dropped dramatically to just 56,700 kilowatt-hours, resulting in the lowest electricity bill in recent municipal history.
Progressive Energy Conservation Journey
This five-star rating represents the culmination of years of progressive energy management efforts. Bacolod City first recorded a 92 percent GEMP compliance rating in 2022, demonstrating consistent improvement over time.
In March 2025, the city further strengthened its conservation initiatives by installing solar power systems in key government facilities. These renewable energy investments complement the behavioral and operational changes mandated through Executive Order 11.
Broader Program Objectives and Inspected Departments
The Government Energy Management Program's primary goal, as explained by Plaza, is to reduce government energy and fuel consumption by 10 to 20 percent nationwide. Bacolod's achievement significantly exceeds these targets, serving as a model for other local government units.
During the April inspection, DOE representatives visited multiple city offices including the Population Commission, City Planning and Development Office, City Engineer's Office, and Business Permits and Licensing Office. The random nature of these spot-checks ensures that energy conservation practices are implemented consistently across all municipal operations rather than in isolated departments.
