BACOLOD CITY – Bacolod City Mayor Greg Gasataya has directed all city government offices to immediately roll out comprehensive energy and fuel efficiency measures, a timely initiative amid rising fuel prices driven by unrest in the Middle East. In an executive order signed on February 13 and effective immediately, office administrative officers are mandated to limit air-conditioning usage to six hours daily, with a maximum extension of eight hours at the agency head’s discretion. Where practical, thermostats must not exceed 24°C, and units should be switched to fan mode from 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM. Lights, computers, and other office equipment must be turned off during lunch breaks and after working hours, except for departments operating continuously with no noon break. To further cut electricity costs, the city will upgrade to inverter air-conditioning units and LED lights. Offices are also advised to purchase energy-consuming products certified under the Department of Energy’s Philippine Energy Labeling Program. Employees and job order personnel are encouraged to use the stairs for trips of one floor up or down. However, Executive Order No. 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. Mayor Gasataya has also instructed building officials to submit proposals to the City Planning and Development Office – Energy Efficiency-Conservation Division for the redesign and retrofitting of government buildings, as well as the installation of solar photovoltaic systems or other equivalent renewable energy technologies. 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% reduction in both electricity and fuel consumption. Each department is required to submit a monthly written report detailing fuel usage in liters. All offices must also conduct awareness campaigns, seminars, and workshops on energy and environmental sustainability, with a focus on cleaner technologies. The mayor is also set to meet and consult with department and office heads on Monday regarding the possibility of implementing a 4-day work week, in line with the directive of Pres. Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos, Jr. (Bacolod City Communications Office)