Bacolod: This highly urbanized city has set up a free nighttime co-working space for online workers affected by the continued power outage in several parts of the city since the devastation of Typhoon Tino (international name Kalmaegi). In a statement, Mayor Greg Gasataya said starting Wednesday night, the extended co-working space at the Government Center will accommodate users from 7 p.m. to 6:30 a.m. daily until power is reasonably restored.

According to Philippines News Agency, the mayor emphasized the challenges faced by virtual assistants and online workers due to the recent typhoons. The new co-working space aims to provide a comfortable and secure environment for them to continue their work. The facility can host up to 100 users, including 40 voice workers and 60 non-voice workers.

During the daytime, some online workers utilize the city’s Youth Lounge in Ayala Capitol Central, which closes at 6:30 p.m. To ensure connectivity for these workers after hours, the Bacolod City Government Center lobby serves as the nighttime extension. Users are required to pre-register to access the co-working space.

Additionally, Mayor Gasataya mentioned that Negros Electric and Power Corp. (Negros Power) and major telecommunications companies have joined the city’s clearing operations. This coordinated effort aims to expedite the restoration of power and internet connectivity, following a recent coordination and assessment meeting.