NEDA exec pushes for energy conservation measures amid Israel conflict

An official from the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) on Tuesday underscored the need to observe energy conservation measures amid the ongoing conflict between Israel and Palestine militant group Hamas.

At a Palace press briefing, NEDA Undersecretary Rosemarie Edillon said the government has already done several scenarios as regards the effects of the hostilities of the tension in Israel.

"Right now, the consensus is that it will be contained – that’s the general consensus. But in the event that it escalates, again, very clear tayo sa priorities natin. Number one is to make sure that our OFWs there are safe, that we can bring them back safely," Edillon said.

"And then, number two, kaya pinag-uusapan na rin, kailangan natin ng mga energy conservation measures, beginning with those in government, at kung ano pang mga—kasi ang maaapektuhan kaagad would be the fuel prices and then the energy prices," she added.

(We also need energy conservation measures, beginning with those in government, as we might also see an impact on fuel and energy prices.)

Four Filipinos were confirmed to have died from the ongoing conflict in Israel: Paul Vincent Castelvi, a 42-year-old caregiver; Grace Prodigo Cabrera; Aguirre, and Alacre.

Last month, Hamas launched its biggest attack on Israel in years, firing rockets and deploying gunmen to several towns, prompting the Israeli government to issue a state of war alert.

Israel launched retaliatory strikes on Gaza, with the death toll on both sides already rising. —VAL, GMA Integrated News