In a swift response to the widespread power and internet disruptions caused by Typhoon Tino, Bacolod City Mayor Greg Gasataya has opened the doors of the Bacolod City Government Center (BCGC) to provide a lifeline for the city's digital workforce.
A Haven for Online Professionals
The BCGC lobby was officially transformed into a free co-working space on the night of Wednesday, November 12, 2025. This initiative directly addresses the struggles faced by virtual assistants and other online professionals whose livelihoods depend on a stable connection. "We know these past days have been incredibly challenging, especially for virtual assistants and online workers. We understand how these power interruptions have impacted your livelihood," Mayor Gasataya stated, highlighting the city's commitment to its residents.
The facility offers reliable internet connectivity provided by both PLDT and Globe Telecommunications, creating a safe and productive environment for those affected by the ongoing brownouts.
Operational Details and Capacity
The nighttime co-working space will operate daily from 7 p.m. to 6:30 a.m., starting November 12, and will continue until full power is restored across the city. The city government has projected that NEPC (Negros Electric and Power Corporation) will restore full power supply by Sunday, November 16.
To accommodate different work styles, the space is designed to host up to 40 voice-based workers and 60 non-voice workers simultaneously. The city is also providing free coffee to help workers through the night. Participants are advised to bring their own extension cords and other essential work equipment.
Relief for the Digital Workforce
For online professionals like Jan Ray Develos, a 28-year-old virtual assistant and part-time choreographer from Barangay Cabug, the city's initiative is a tremendous relief. "It really helps a lot, especially for us who work night shifts," Develos shared. "Since the typhoon hit, we've been struggling to pay for hotels and cafes just to have a stable connection and electricity — something our salary can barely sustain."
This new facility complements the city's existing co-working hub at Ayala Capitol Central, which closes at 6:30 p.m., thereby ensuring that online workers have a place to work around the clock during this recovery period. The launch was a collaborative effort between the mayor's office, the Management Information Technology and Computer Services (MITCS), and other key city offices.
