By Benjamin Cuaresma
MANILA — Mayor Francisco “Isko” Moreno Domagoso has ordered a 50% reduction in fuel consumption across all city government operations, citing the escalating conflict in Iran and the closure of the Strait of Hormuz as threats to global oil supplies.
In Executive Order No. 7, series of 2026, signed on March 2, the Mayor directed all city departments, bureaus, and offices to meet the fuel reduction target, covering motor vehicles, generators, heavy equipment, and other fuel-consuming assets.
“The ongoing armed conflict in the Middle East and Operation Epic Fury in full effect will contribute to significant global oil market volatility, supply disruptions, and upward pressure on fuel prices, affecting the national and local economy,” Domagoso said.
To achieve the fuel reduction goal, the city government will optimize vehicle routes, consolidate deliveries, and minimize mileage. Non-essential travel by city officials and staff is prohibited, and all “lakbay-aral” activities and foreign trips are suspended unless critical to city operations.
City offices, except LGU-run hospitals and healthcare facilities, must implement electricity-saving measures, including switching off power by 5:00 p.m. Meetings with the city’s 896 barangays, 44 city health centers, seven hospitals, and district satellite offices will be conducted online.
Graduation ceremonies in public elementary and secondary schools will be held within their campuses to ease travel and reduce fuel-related costs for families.
The order also allows staggered shifts, compressed workweeks, and remote work arrangements where feasible. It mandates reductions in non-essential lighting and adjustments to heating, ventilation, and air-conditioning systems in city-owned facilities.
Emergency operations—including police, fire, ambulance services, public health, and disaster risk reduction—are exempt from the restrictions. Violations of travel and fuel-use provisions will be subject to administrative investigation and penalties.
The order takes effect immediately and will remain in force until the Mayor determines that fuel conditions have stabilized. /iami
