Manila to Shorten Government Work Week to Cut Oil Bills
Date: 24-Mar-05
Country: PHILIPPINES
The Philippines imports almost all of the 330,000 barrels of oil it consumes each day. Oil prices hit a record peak of $57.60 per barrel last week but have since eased towards $55.
Energy Secretary Raphael Lotilla said the plan, approved late on Tuesday by President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo's cabinet, is expected to save the government at least 10 percent on its fuel and electricity bills during the two months.
"The current high prices of oil in the world market make it imperative that we conserve energy and the government has to head the way in this effort," Lotilla told a news conference on Wednesday.
Lotilla said vital services such as police and hospitals might be exempted from the scheme, which would likely cut the work week at state agencies to Monday to Thursday but lengthen daily operating hours slightly.
Electricity demand is usually at its highest in the summer months of April and May due to increased use of fans and air conditioners.
Lotilla called on the private sector and all Filipinos to help the government make the programme work. "Let's make energy conservation a way of life," he said.
The government, trying to reduce chronic budget deficits while battling pervasive corruption and widespread tax evasion, brought in several schemes last year to cut its fuel bills.
In August, civil servants were told to turn off lights at lunch time and sweat through the end of the day without air conditioning, as the government halted purchases of vehicles.
