In response to global energy concerns, Senate President Vicente Sotto III backs a proposal allowing certain Senate staff to work remotely to reduce electricity and fuel usage.
Senate President Vicente Sotto III announced his support for implementing a work-from-home option for Senate employees capable of performing their duties remotely. The initiative, proposed by Senate Secretary Mark Llandro Mendoza, aims to reduce electricity and fuel consumption in light of ongoing tensions in the Middle East affecting energy supply and prices. Speaking at a Kapihan sa Manila Bay forum on March 11, 2026, Sotto emphasized that employees whose physical presence at the Senate is not essential will be allowed to work from home. He noted that even small efforts to conserve energy could make a significant impact, suggesting that shifting approximately 30% of Senate staff to remote work could help substantially cut energy use. This move aligns with broader government measures, such as the four-day workweek temporarily introduced since March 9, 2026, for executive branch offices, and Memorandum Circular No. 114, which mandates stricter energy conservation across government operations. Additionally, Sotto expressed support for repealing the Downstream Oil Industry Deregulation Act of 1998, proposing renewed government oversight of oil companies to better manage potential oil crises. The deregulation act had previously removed government control to promote competition in the petroleum sector. These steps reflect ongoing efforts by Philippine officials to address escalating energy challenges and promote sustainable resource management.
Sources referenced:
- https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/topstories/nation/979566/sotto-backs-work-from-home-option-for-some-senate-staff/story/
