BACOLOD CITY – Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson recently discouraged Negrenses from resorting to the panic buying of fuel, amid spiraling prices, stressing that the supply “is still there.”
During a zoom meeting with the different local government executives, which was presided by Energy Undersecretary Felix Fuentebella on Tuesday, Lacson said they were assured by the Department of Energy that the country has 30 days of inventory.
But we have to tighten our belts, the governor said, adding that there will be no more unnecessary travels.
Lacson said they were also informed by the DOE official that the Philippines is now exploring alternative oil sources to ensure a steady supply amid the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.
Authorities are also closely monitoring supply levels and warning against illegal hoarding and profiteering to maintain market stability.
While there was no mention of possible gas rationing during the meeting, Lacson, however, said it could be a possibility in the future if the armed conflict in the Middle East continues.
The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) has called on local government units (LGUs) nationwide to reduce electricity and fuel consumption by 10 to 20 percent, as geopolitical tensions in the Middle East continue to affect the global energy supply and prices.
The DILG also advised limiting official travel to essential activities and improving fleet management to boost the efficiency of government vehicles and cut fuel consumption.
We have to find ways to minimize the use of our vehicles. That’s the only way to survive, Lacson said, anticipating also that it may affect local tourism.
There will be less tourism traffic in the island, especially in Don Salvador Benedicto on weekends, he said. With the Panaad sa Negros Festival scheduled for April 13 to 19, Lacson also raised the possibility of a drop in attendance of the crowd from the far-north or far-south LGUs, although he expects that populace in highly urbanized Bacolod may attend the weeklong festivities. (Gilbert Bayoran via tvds photo by tvds)