DAR-NIR adopts bike-to-work program amid energy-saving push
DAR employees in Negros Island driving a bicycle to work. (DAR-NIR)
BACOLOD CITY – The Department of Agrarian Reform-Negros Island Region (DAR-NIR) is promoting the use of bicycles and other modes of non-motorized transport for the daily commute of its officials and staff.
DAR-NIR Director Lucrecia Taberna led the launch of “Padyak to Work” (Pedal to Work) recently at North Capitol Road here as a strategy to reduce fuel reliance and boost physical fitness.
“We thought of a strategy together with the president of the DAR Rank and File Employees Union on how we, at DAR-NIR, can contribute to fuel-saving measures," Taberna said.
The “Padyak to Work” initiative kicked off with a ceremonial bike send-off from the North Capitol Road and a Zumba session at the Provincial Capitol Park and Lagoon.
The agency integrated the initiative into its gender and development (GAD) efforts to promote an inclusive environment prioritizing employee health and well-being.
The DAR-NIR regional office and its provincial offices currently adopt a four-day compressed work week arrangement in compliance with Malacañang’s Memorandum Circular (MC) 114.
Under the setup, offices under the DAR-NIR are open Monday to Thursday, from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m.
MC 114 directs all government agencies to ensure the strict adoption of energy conservation measures amid ongoing geopolitical tensions in the Middle East.
Meanwhile, this highly-urbanized city has also adopted energy conservation measures through Memorandum No. 99, Series of 2026, effective April 6. The policy introduces a flexible work arrangement under the directive of Mayor Greg Gasataya.
Under the memorandum, government offices operate onsite from Monday to Thursday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., while Fridays are designated for work-from-home tasks such as research, data processing, drafting, and other computer-based work.
Essential services—including frontline operations, public safety, and emergency response—will continue under adjusted or alternative schedules to ensure uninterrupted public service.