Comelec implements energy-saving measures amid oil price hike

The Commission on Elections (Comelec) will implement new energy-saving measures as part of its bid to institutionalize energy efficiency and conservation amid the rising pump prices in the country. 

On Thursday, the poll body released an energy conservation protocol (ECP), which it said will “serve as the framework for the implementation of energy efficiency and conservation measures within the Commission, and shall be binding upon all its offices and personnel.” 

This is in line of Republic Act 11285 or the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Act and Memorandum Circular No. 114, series of 2026 issued by the Office of the President, which orders government agencies to adopt energy conservation protocols and flexible work arrangements amid rising fuel costs linked to global geopolitical tensions.

Under the ECP, all Comelec department and offices are mandated to turn off all non-essential lights, and unplug all electrical appliances, and electronic equipment when not in use.

All electronic equipment such as computers shall also be placed in sleep mode where practicable and if the feature is available.

Usage of air-conditioning units shall also be limited, and such units shall be turned off at least two hours before the close of office hours.

The Comelec said it will also “strictly discourage” cooking within office premises, while natural daylight shall be maximized whenever feasible, in lieu of overhead lighting.

Meanwhile, energy-saving equipment, materials, and supplies shall be procured and utilized in accordance with the guidelines issued by the Energy Department and all incandescent lighting shall be replaced with compact fluorescent lamps (CFLs) or light-emitting diode (LED) bulbs subject to the availability of funds.

Traveling

Meanwhile, proper trip scheduling and routing will also be enforced among Comelec personnel to minimize unnecessary short trips and reduce vehicle deployment. This requirement likewise applies to all offices with issued service vehicles.

Employees are also encouraged to conduct trainings, briefings, and similar activities virtually, “without prejudice to existing protocols of the Personnel Department or other concerned offices for trainings that require face-to-face attendance.”

Comelec employees are also encouraged to use the stairs instead of elevators except for those with special needs, such as persons with disabilities (PWDs), pregnant women, and the elderly.

Earlier, poll chief George Erwin Garcia said the Comelec cannot adapt the proposed four-day workweek citing the ongoing nationwide voter registration as well as their preparations for three elections in 2026.

It can be recalled that President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. announced that a four-day work week will temporarily be implemented in offices under the executive department.

Marcos also directed government offices and agencies to find ways to conserve energy. — JMA, GMA Integrated News