Bacolod city: This highly urbanized city has logged savings of up to PHP250,000 in monthly electricity bills, underscoring its compliance with the Department of Energy's Government Energy Management Program (GEMP).
According to Philippines News Agency, Bacolod City is hosting the 1st National Convention of National Energy Efficiency and Conservation Officers and the 3rd GEMP Summit Visayas Leg at Roy's Hotel and Convention Center from Aug. 11 to 13. Mayor Greg Gasataya emphasized that the proper and efficient use of energy should not be just for compliance, but should be a culture of good and responsible governance. He stated, "Energy efficiency is not merely about saving electricity. It is about protecting taxpayers' money. Use less. Waste less. Plan better. Serve more."
In February, Gasataya issued energy-saving initiatives through Executive Order 11, mandating energy efficiency and conservation measures across various city departments and offices. This led to a reduction in the city government's energy consumption from 80,000 kilowatt-hours (kWh) to 56,700 kWh, resulting in almost PHP250,000 in savings for March. From PHP946,878 in February, the billing statement in March showed a decrease to PHP782,172.
In April, Bacolod City earned a score of 98 percent, equivalent to a five-star rating, higher than the 92 percent GEMP compliance rating in 2022. The GEMP is anchored on Memorandum Circular 114, series of 2026, signed by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., which strictly mandates all local and national government entities to cut fuel and electricity consumption by 10 percent to 20 percent by year-end.
The 3rd GEMP Summit, themed 'Advancing Energy Efficiency and Sustainable Local Governance in the Visayas,' gathers more than 100 energy efficiency and conservation (EEC) personnel and representatives from local government units in Western Visayas, Central Visayas, Eastern Visayas, and the Negros Island Region. Comprehensive discussions aim to amplify energy efficiency awareness among EEC government professionals, reinforce the adoption of energy-saving measures in daily operations, and foster collaboration and support mechanisms.
