By Christsam Joy S. Jaspe-Santander
EECOs and Focal Persons from the Provinces and Municipalities of Antique, Aklan and Capiz.
The United States Agency for International Development Energy Secure Philippines (USAID ESP) Grant Activity, “Energy Knowledge Empowerment in Western Visayas (EKEWV)” through its grantee, Central Philippine University (CPU), extended assistance to the provinces of Antique, Aklan, and Capiz to facilitate their compliance with the Government Energy Management Program (GEMP), as outlined in the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Act (Republic Act No. 11285) and reiterated by Administrative Order No. 15 (AO 15) issued January 2024.
The CPU EKEWV team, together with Engr. Chammer Jake Plaza from the Department of Energy-Visayas Field Office and Mr. Rey Victor Garin from the Iloilo Provincial Government, traveled to the provinces of Antique, Aklan and Capiz from July 16-19, 2024, for a training workshop on GEMP. The rollout commenced in Antique, where nine out of the 18 municipalities were represented by 42 participants. In Aklan, five out of the 17 municipalities attended, represented by 23 participants. Notable attendance was seen in Capiz, with all the 16 municipalities represented by 44 participants.
EECOs workshop on the GEMP Online Portal.
The campaign began with a detailed overview of GEMP policies, aiming to reduce energy consumption by at least 10% in government offices. Key strategies include implementing energy conservation measures, upgrading to more energy-efficient equipment, use of renewable energy (RE) systems, and appointing EEC Officers for compliance. The training focused on using the DOE-GEMP Online System for monitoring and reporting energy use, with a hands-on workshop led by the Department of Energy. The campaign also highlighted existing energy efficiency initiatives in Iloilo, such as LED lighting, solar panels in government buildings, and community awareness activities.
The campaign signifies USAID ESP, through CPU EKEWV, commitment in enhancing energy efficiency and promoting sustainable practices throughout Western Visayas.