By CESAR JOLITO III
Consumer advocacy groups in Negros are urging the government and the public to adopt stronger energy conservation measures as rising global oil prices threaten to drive up electricity costs and the overall cost of living.
The Alliance of Concerned Consumers in Electricity and Social Services (ACCESS) has joined forces with Power Watch Negros Advocates and the Alliance of Consumers in Northern Negros to promote energy efficiency programs across communities.
ACCESS President Wennie Sancho said the escalation of conflict in the Middle East could trigger economic repercussions in the Philippines, particularly through soaring oil prices, a weakening peso, and potential declines in remittances from overseas Filipino workers in the region.
These factors, Sancho said, could further strain Filipino households and businesses that rely heavily on imported fuel and goods.
The coalition is pushing for the implementation of the “Tipid Energia” campaign, which aims to encourage households, businesses, schools, and government offices to adopt energy-efficient practices to reduce electricity consumption.
The program promotes simple measures such as switching to LED lighting, turning off appliances when not in use, and using energy-efficient equipment.
Sancho said the consumer groups will also roll out public awareness campaigns on social media and conduct consumer education programs to promote energy-saving practices.
The initiative will include energy audits for homes and businesses to help identify inefficiencies and recommend improvements.
The campaign is expected to be implemented in partnership with local power utilities, including Negros Electric and Power Corp., Northern Negros Electric Cooperative (Noneco), and Negros Occidental Electric Cooperative (Noceco), as well as local government units and community organizations.
Sancho emphasized that even small reductions in electricity use could have a significant national impact.
He said that if Filipino households cut their energy consumption by just 10 percent, it could ease pressure on the power grid, lower electricity bills, and help stabilize energy costs during a period of global economic uncertainty.
“Simple changes can make a big difference because energy conservation is a collective responsibility,” Sancho said, urging consumers to work together to strengthen the country’s economic resilience amid global challenges./CJ, WDJ