Iloilo provincial gov't reinforces energy-saving measures
DEFENSOR (center). (FB)
ILOILO CITY – The Iloilo provincial government has mandated stricter energy and fuel conservation protocols to cushion the impact of rising fuel prices.
“Considering the potential continuous increase in fuel prices and its consequential impact on the economy, industries, and the general public, there is a need to strengthen the implementation of energy conservation, efficiency, and austerity measures to mitigate its adverse effects on public resources and the welfare of the people,” Gov. Arthur Defensor Jr. said in Executive Order (EO) No. 34 released on Thursday night.
Defensor said travels will be limited to essential and necessary functions, and virtual meetings will be used for inter-agency coordination, meetings, and similar activities, except when physical presence is legally required or operationally essential.
“The province shall treat the current crisis in the power and fuel industry as a matter of national emergency, as they compromise the welfare of the people as well as the development of the country,” he said.
The provincial government will also implement a compressed work week for select offices, with 10-hour days plus lunch break from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m., Monday to Thursday.
Friday is designated as a non-working day.
Excluded from the four-day work week are the governor's office, provincial agriculturist, engineer, hospital management, disaster risk reduction, social welfare, information and communications technology management, and general services.
Defensor directed energy efficiency and conservation officers, local government focal persons, and capitol complex coordinators to meet and accelerate the implementation of the Government Efficiency Management Program.
He stressed the need to rapidly advance renewable energy projects. (PNA)