The Department of Energy (DOE) has recognized Bacolod City with a 5-star rating under the Government Energy Management Program (GEMP), achieving 98 percent compliance during a random spot-check inspection at the Bacolod City Government Center yesterday, a press release from the Bacolod City Communications Office said.
Following a courtesy visit, the inspection team—led by Chammer Jake Plaza, Supervising Science Research Specialist for DOE Visayas, along with Clemente Desoacido Jr. and John Dale Quinonesto—commended the local government for its outstanding performance in energy efficiency and conservation. The recognition was attributed to Bacolod Mayor Greg Gasataya’s proactive leadership.
“Bacolod is highly compliant. For example, Executive Order No. 11 specifies that air conditioning units in offices should be set no lower than 24°C,” Plaza noted.
Prior to the fuel crisis, Gasataya issued energy-saving initiatives through Executive Order No. 11, dated February 13, 2026, which mandated energy efficiency and conservation measures across various city departments and offices.
The DOE also highlighted Bacolod’s best practices, including the establishment of the Energy Efficiency and Conservation (EEC) Division. The division is led by EEC Officer Mary Jean Ramos, with Christian Joyd Alabia serving as EEC focal person and Kate Sumande as EEC coordinator.
Offices randomly inspected during the visit included the Population Commission (PopCom), City Planning and Development Office (CPDO), City Engineer’s Office (CEO), and Business Permits and Licensing Office (BPLO).
Bacolod first recorded a 92 percent GEMP compliance rating in 2022.
In March 2025, the city installed solar power systems in government facilities to further strengthen its energy conservation efforts.
Plaza emphasized that the primary goal of the GEMP is to reduce energy and fuel consumption by 10 to 20 percent.
Records show that more than P250,000 in taxpayer funds were saved in just one month on electricity costs.
“Every peso entrusted to us belongs to the people. By saving on utility costs, we ensure that these funds are used responsibly and can be redirected toward meaningful programs and essential services that Bacolodnons truly need,” Gasataya said.
Last year, the city’s average monthly electricity consumption exceeded 80,000 kWh, costing taxpayers around P1.1 million.
In March, consumption dropped to just 56,700 kWh, resulting in the lowest electricity bill in recent history. This demonstrates the city government’s commitment to delivering efficient services while reducing energy and fuel costs, allowing more resources to be allocated to programs that benefit all Bacolodnons.*
