The Department of the Interior and Local Government – National Capital Region (DILG-NCR) convened its Regional Team Conference (RTC) virtually on April 6, 2026, to discuss key energy conservation strategies and measures in line with Office of the President Memorandum Circular No. 114, which directs all government agencies to strictly adopt energy conservation protocols, and Executive Order No. 110, s. 2026, which declares a State of National Energy Emergency in the country. The shift to a virtual platform reflects the agency’s commitment to sustainability and operational efficiency.

In her opening message, Regional Director Maria Lourdes L. Agustin, CESO III, highlighted the region’s proactive adoption of energy-saving measures. These include the implementation of a four-day compressed workweek, reduced fuel consumption through carpooling, and minimized electricity usage.

RD Agustin also shared that the Regional Office received a positive compliance rating during the Department of Energy’s (DOE) Energy Efficiency and Conservation Spot-Check Audit conducted on March 25, 2026. The DOE recommended optimizing lighting systems, regulating air conditioning usage, and designating Energy Efficiency and Conservation Officers. While the Regional Office met the audit parameters, RD Agustin emphasized the need to further refine its strategies to achieve a 10–20 percent reduction in electricity and fuel consumption, in line with DILG Memorandum Circular No. 2026-023, while sustaining the delivery of public services across Metro Manila.

Local Government Capability Development Division (LGCDD) Chief LGOO VII Luigi D.C. Pilarta likewise presented the results of the Capacity Development Assessment Tool (CapDAT), which was conducted among participants from Local Government Units (LGUs) during Capacity Development (CapDev) Programs implemented from 2023 to 2025. The results showed that 85% of respondents reported positive changes within their LGUs or local communities as a result of the programs. LGCDD Chief Pilarta also discussed the division’s upcoming internal and external capacity development activities, noting that these will be carried out in accordance with existing energy conservation measures.

Meanwhile, Local Government Monitoring and Evaluation Division (LGMED) Acting Chief LGOO VI Marda Alina R. Dumaoang-Acoba presented the first quarter compliance ratings of NCR LGUs. The results indicated generally high compliance across various performance audits and regular program monitoring requirements, reflecting strong adherence to governance standards and continuous improvements in service delivery. These initiatives underscore DILG-NCR’s commitment to promoting accountability, strengthening performance monitoring, and driving continuous improvement among LGUs.

The Finance and Administrative Division (FAD) presented clarifications on the compressed workweek arrangement, including flexible working hours, leave credit adjustments, and policies on overtime services. Initial data shows significant gains, with fuel consumption reduced since the adoption of the compressed schedule.

The Office of the Regional Director, through the Regional Information and Communication Technology Unit (RICTU), also discussed its adaptation to energy conservation measures by increasing the use of online platforms such as Zoom to support the shift to virtual modalities. The Legal Unit likewise provided updates on the number of complaints acted upon.

In her closing message, Assistant Regional Director Atty. Ana Lyn R. Baltazar-Cortez, CESO IV, underscored the importance of timely reporting, strengthened coordination with LGUs, and readiness for the 2026 Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections (BSKE). She emphasized DILG-NCR’s commitment to responsive governance, transparency, and effective service delivery across Metro Manila.

DILG-NCR reaffirms its commitment to ensuring that all personnel—from the Regional Office to the Field Offices—remain aligned in the strategic implementation of the Department’s initiatives. Through strengthened coordination, clear policy direction, and continuous capacity development, DILG-NCR aims to foster a unified, responsive, and results-driven workforce. This collective alignment is vital in translating national directives into meaningful, on-the-ground outcomes that enhance local governance and deliver efficient, people-centered public service across Metro Manila.