The Department of Energy (DOE) has strengthened nationwide energy audits and spot checks across government facilities to ensure strict compliance with energy efficiency standards and accelerate the full implementation of the Government Energy Management Program (GEMP).

The intensified monitoring effort is supported by key policy directives, including Memorandum Circular No. 114, Series of 2026, signed by Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., which mandates all national and local government agencies to reduce their fuel and electricity consumption by 10–20% before the end of 2026.

Further reinforcing the directive, Sharon S. Garin, Secretary of the DOE, issued an advisory through the Inter-Agency Energy Efficiency and Conservation Committee (IAEECC) on March 4, 2026, instructing government offices to strictly comply with the guidelines under GEMP.

As part of the initiative, DOE officials are conducting spot checks to evaluate whether agencies are implementing key energy-saving measures. These include maintaining air-conditioning thermostats at no lower than 24°C, limiting unnecessary air-conditioning use, adopting energy-efficient lighting systems and office equipment, and implementing fuel-saving practices for government vehicles. The audits also review whether agencies are adopting flexible work arrangements when practical, installing on-site renewable energy systems where feasible, and submitting energy consumption data through the Online GEMP System.

Government institutions are also required to designate Energy Efficiency and Conservation (EEC) professionals, including officers, focal persons, and coordinators, to oversee conservation initiatives and ensure compliance with reporting requirements.

“At a time when energy must be managed with greater discipline and responsibility, government institutions must set the standard by showing that conservation can be practiced every day without compromising service to the public,” Garin said in a statement. She added that every unit of energy saved by government offices contributes to lowering operational costs and improving efficiency in public services.

The DOE also reiterated that all government entities must comply with national energy policies, including the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Act and Administrative Order No. 15, which promote responsible energy use and sustainable public sector operations.