DOLE cuts fuel and electricity consumption under compressed workweek, assures uninterrupted work

The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) has reported significant reductions in both fuel and electricity consumption following the implementation of a compressed workweek (CWW) and a series of austerity measures aligned with the Philippine government’s broader efficiency drive.

The measures were introduced in compliance with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s directive to conserve government resources and improve operational efficiency across agencies.

According to DOLE, fuel consumption at the Central Office dropped by 21% between February and March 2026 after the adoption of flexible work arrangements and resource-saving initiatives under Office of the President Memorandum Circular No. 114 and DOLE Administrative Order No. 101, signed by Officer-in-Charge Benedicto Ernesto R. Bitonio Jr.

Data from the assessment showed that fuel consumption declined from 4,722.85 liters in February to 3,752.63 liters in March, marking a reduction of 970.22 liters. Several offices posted double-digit declines, with the Administrative Service recording the steepest reduction at 80%, equivalent to 92.89 liters.

The Department said the decline reflected “improved operational efficiency” resulting from fewer onsite reporting days and more optimized deployment of government vehicles and transport-related activities under the compressed workweek setup.

Alongside fuel savings, DOLE also recorded a sharp decline in electricity consumption. The Department’s overall power usage fell from 113,560 kilowatt-hours (kWh) in February 2026 to 100,720 kWh in March 2026, translating to a 14.93% reduction.

DOLE noted that its overall electricity consumption dropped by 12,840 kWh, equivalent to an 11.31% reduction, following the implementation of energy-saving strategies that included compressed work arrangements, fuel efficiency measures, and sustained conservation practices across offices.

The DOLE Central Office alone achieved a reduction of 11,840 kWh, while nine offices recorded electricity savings of up to 15.68%, reflecting strong compliance with the Department’s conservation initiatives.

“These results reflect the Department’s continuing commitment to responsible resource management and energy conservation in support of broader government efficiency measures,” DOLE said.

Despite the austerity measures and alternative work arrangements, the Department assured the public that frontline operations and labor services remain fully functional. DOLE Hotline 1349 continues to operate Mondays through Fridays from 6:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m., ensuring uninterrupted support for workers and employers.

The Department’s conservation efforts also received recognition from the Department of Energy (DOE), which awarded the DOLE Central Office a 100% score and a 5-star rating during its March energy spot audit for compliance with government energy efficiency standards.