Manila, Philippines – The Philippine government on March 9 started the implementation of mandatory four-day, on-site work week for its executive offices, under the directive of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.
This work set-up is only temporarily aimed at conserving energy and reducing fuel use amid soaring oil prices globally, linked with the Middle East Crisis.
However, for Abra lone district Rep. JB Bernos, this temporary shift to four-day work week in government offices emphasizes the country’s need to step away from its dependence on oil.
With this, Bernos calls for the passage of House Bill No. 3126 or the On-Grid Solar Energy Systems bill pushing for the use of renewable energy sources instead.
Under the bill, it will require the use of solar energy on all national and local government-owned buildings and offices.
By using on-grid solar energy systems, Bernos noted that it will also reduce electricity costs and fuel usage.
The bill also requires government agencies to ensure that 20 percent of their average monthly utilization (AMU) would be covered by the on-grid solar energy systems within one year of installation.
The AMU by such systems will increase by 20% in every succeeding year.
Bernos explained that this power source is more affordable and is considered as a long-term investment.
“Considering that solar panel technology has become much cheaper to the point that it is even viable for home use, not to mention a typical lifespan of 25 to 30 years, there is hardly any reason why the government shouldn’t shift to a resource that we have an abundance of,” said Abra lone district Rep. JB Bernos.