Negros Occidental and Bacolod City Implement Energy Conservation Protocols
In response to escalating global energy market volatility, the Provincial Government of Negros Occidental and Bacolod City have issued executive orders adopting comprehensive energy conservation protocols. These measures are mandated under the Office of the President Memorandum Circular 114, dated March 6, 2026, and aim to mitigate the impact of rising fuel costs on the national economy.
Provincial Government's Four-Day Work Week Initiative
Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson issued Executive Order 26-05 on March 7, 2026, citing urgent geopolitical tensions that have led to significant instability in global energy markets. The order emphasizes the need to reduce the government's energy footprint and optimize public resource usage. All offices and departments of the Provincial Government of Negros Occidental will adopt a compressed four-day work week, with office hours from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m., Tuesday through Friday, effective March 16, 2026. This schedule ensures compliance with the required 40 working hours per week and will remain in effect until revoked or modified by the President of the Philippines.
Bacolod City's Comprehensive Efficiency Measures
Bacolod City Mayor Greg Gasataya has directed all City Government offices to immediately implement energy and fuel efficiency measures. This timely initiative addresses rising fuel prices driven by unrest in the Middle East. An executive order signed on February 13, effective immediately, includes the following key provisions:
- Air-conditioning usage is limited to six hours daily, with a maximum extension of eight hours at the agency head's discretion.
- Thermostats must not exceed 24°C where practical, and units should switch to fan mode from 12 p.m. to 1 p.m.
- Lights, computers, and other office equipment must be turned off during lunch breaks and after working hours, except for continuously operating departments.
To further cut electricity costs, the city will upgrade to inverter air-conditioning units and LED lights. Offices are advised to purchase energy-consuming products certified under the Department of Energy's Philippine Energy Labeling Program.
Employee and Building Enhancements
Employees and job order personnel are encouraged to use stairs for trips of one floor up or down. However, Executive Order 11 explicitly exempts pregnant women, senior citizens, persons with disabilities, those with underlying medical conditions, and individuals carrying heavy loads from any elevator use restrictions.
Building officials are instructed to submit proposals to the City Planning and Development Office-Energy Efficiency-Conservation Division for redesigning and retrofitting government buildings, as well as installing solar photovoltaic systems or other renewable energy technologies.
Vehicle Operations and Reporting Requirements
For vehicle operations, proper trip scheduling will be enforced to eliminate unnecessary short trips. Engine idling while parked and vehicle overloading are strictly prohibited. The City Government targets a 10 percent reduction in both electricity and fuel consumption. Each department must submit a monthly written report detailing fuel usage in liters.
All offices must conduct awareness campaigns, seminars, and workshops on energy and environmental sustainability, with a focus on cleaner technologies. Mayor Gasataya is set to meet with department and office heads on Monday to discuss implementing a four-day work week, aligning with the directive of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.
