The Negros Oriental provincial government has begun implementing policies to cushion the effect on the public of the continuing armed confrontation in the Middle East.
In support of President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr.’s directive to government offices to save fuel and energy and protect Filipinos from unapproved price increases, Governor Manuel Sagarbarria recently ordered the reactivation of the Local Price Coordinating Council (LPCC) and the adoption of a four-day work week in the provincial government.
“The governor issued two executive orders [EOs] in the past several days to address the escalating prices of commodities, especially petroleum and others, as a consequence of the conflict in the Middle East,” said Provincial Legal Officer Myles Bejar.
The EOs intend to mitigate the economic impact of the escalating international crisis and manage energy consumption amid uncertainties in fuel supply.
“We reactivate this council because we are anticipating … overpricing or hoarding of supplies or commodities,” said Bejar, noting that issues and concerns monitored by the body will be carefully discussed and given attention.
The LPCC, composed of different government agencies, is tasked to coordinate and rationalize programs to stabilize prices and supply of basic necessities and prime commodities.
The provincial government also adopted a four-day work week beginning March 9, with offices open from Monday to Thursday from 8:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m., or 10 hours daily, and retaining a 40-hour work week.
However, Bejar clarified that frontline services and emergency response offices will continue their regular work schedule from Monday to Friday to ensure an uninterrupted delivery of vital services.
“The EO exempts critical offices, such as [those involved in] disaster and relief. The provincial hospital and district hospitals, they’re also exempted,” the official said.
Meanwhile, the Ayungon Municipal Government has also implemented strict energy conservation protocols through Memorandum Circular (MC) No. 114 issued by Malacañang.
“We see to it that [turning air-conditioners on] starts at 9:00 a.m. and must be [turned off] at 4:00 p.m. in all offices; and turn off non-essential lights and equipment during breaks and after office hours [to] save energy,” the mayor said.
Ayungon’s municipal-level Local Price Coordinating Council has been activated to monitor the price of goods and protect consumers from price manipulations. (PIA-NIR Negros Oriental)