Manila:<Text>

The Department of Agriculture (DA) on Wednesday announced its decision to implement energy-saving measures to address fuel and energy consumption concerns.

According to Philippines News Agency, this move follows the advice of the Inter-Agency Energy Efficiency and Conservation Committee (IAEECC), which urged all government agencies, government-owned or controlled corporations (GOCCs), state universities and colleges (SUCs), and local government units (LGUs) to reduce fuel consumption by at least 10 percent. This directive aligns with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.'s strategy to mitigate the effects of impending global crude price increases, exacerbated by tensions in the Middle East.

Assistant Secretary Arnel de Mesa, the DA spokesperson, highlighted the department's commitment to energy-saving initiatives during a press conference. He noted that the DA, one of the largest bureaucracies, would implement these measures at all levels, including regional field offices. "We have so many regional field offices and vehicles. So, we will do all energy-saving measures that we can do," he stated.

In addition to reducing energy usage, the DA is considering a work-from-home arrangement as a potential response to prolonged energy challenges. De Mesa explained that such arrangements could be a viable way to conserve resources if the situation worsens. President Marcos has previously indicated that the government is open to exploring a four-day work week in government offices as part of broader energy-saving efforts.