The Department of Energy (DOE) ramped up nationwide energy audits and spot checks in all government facilities to enforce compliance with energy efficiency standards and fully implement the Government Energy Management Program (GEMP).
The initiative is anchored on two key issuances: Memorandum Circular No. 114, Series of 2026, signed by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., which strictly mandates all local and national government entities to cut fuel and electricity consumption by 10-20% by year-end. Additionally, Energy Secretary Sharon S. Garin issued an Inter-Agency Energy Efficiency and Conservation Committee (IAEECC) Advisory on March 4, 2026, directing strict adherence to GEMP guidelines.
During spot checks, DOE representatives assess adherence to core energy-saving practices, such as setting air-conditioning thermostats to to no lower than 24°C and restricting use when not necessary, using efficient lighting systems and office equipment, adopting of fuel-saving practices for government vehicles, implementing flexible work arrangements where practical, installing on-site renewable energy systems where feasible, and submitting of timely data and reports through the Online GEMP System.
All agencies must also designate Energy Efficiency and Conservation (EEC) professionals, including officers, focal persons, and coordinators, to lead implementation of conservation programs and ensure compliance with reporting requirements.
“At a time when energy must be managed with greater discipline and responsibility, government institutions must set the standard by showing that conservation can be practiced every day without compromising service to the public,” Secretary Garin said, who chairs the IAEECC.
“Every unit of energy saved in government helps reduce unnecessary costs, promotes greater efficiency in public operations, and reflects our duty to use public resources wisely,” The DOE reminds all entities to comply with Republic Act No. 11285 (Energy Efficiency and Conservation Act), Administrative Order No. 15, and other relevant policies.
To promote transparency and accountability, the DOE will publish compliance results of all government entities on its official website at www.doe.gov.ph.
