By CESAR JOLITO III

The Bacolod Sangguniang Panlungsod (SP) has formally urged the national government to accelerate the development of renewable and alternative energy programs, citing the growing impact of volatile global oil prices on Filipino households.

The call emphasizes the country’s continued reliance on imported oil and its vulnerability to external market disruptions, particularly amid ongoing geopolitical tensions affecting global fuel supply.

In the SP resolution, Councilor Caesar Distrito warned that fluctuating fuel prices have a cascading effect on daily expenses, driving up transportation fares and the cost of basic goods.

He stressed that the issue requires long-term, structural solutions rather than short-term interventions.

The resolution appeals to the Department of Energy and other concerned agencies to intensify efforts in expanding renewable energy sources, including solar, wind, hydroelectric, geothermal, and biomass.

Local officials highlighted that Bacolod City and the wider Negros Occidental are well-positioned to support the country’s energy transition.

The region’s abundant sunlight and strong agricultural base, particularly its sugar industry, provide significant potential for solar power and biomass energy development.

Distrito underscored that investing in renewable energy goes beyond environmental concerns, pointing to its role in strengthening economic stability and energy security while easing the financial burden on consumers.

The resolution also calls for increased government incentives, funding support and policy reforms to attract more investments in renewable energy projects, especially in high-potential areas like Negros Occidental./CJ, WDJ