Negros Occidental and Bacolod Switch to 4-Day Work Week — Blame the Fuel Crisis
Starting March 16, government employees in Negros Occidental will enjoy three-day weekends — but don't get too excited, they'll be working 10-hour days from Tuesday to Friday. Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson approved the compressed work week as part of a nationwide push to save energy and fuel amid the ongoing Middle East crisis that's sending oil prices through the roof.
The setup means office operations will run from 8 AM to 7 PM on those four days. Critical services like hospitals, disaster response, and security won't be affected — they'll adjust rotation schedules to keep running 24/7. Frontline services including civil registration, licensing, and health services will be available during the extended hours para walang maapektuhang residente.
Meanwhile in Bacolod City, Mayor Greg Gasataya isn't waiting around. He's already issued an executive order mandating energy-saving measures across all city offices — air-con limited to six hours daily, thermostats no lower than 24°C, and a hilarious-but-real directive encouraging employees to take the stairs for trips of one floor up or down (with exemptions for pregnant women, PWDs, seniors, and those carrying heavy loads).
The city is targeting a 10% reduction in electricity and fuel consumption. They're also looking into installing solar panels and upgrading to inverter units and LED lights for long-term savings. Building officials have been tasked to submit proposals for facility retrofitting — basically future-proofing city offices against more energy crises.
Both moves follow President Marcos Jr.'s directive to conserve resources as global oil prices continue their rapid climb due to the Iran conflict. For residents worried about access, the city's online portals for permits, payments, and inquiries remain available 24/7. It's adapt or pay more — and Negros Occidental chose to adapt.
Source: The Manila Times
