Consumers urged to adopt energy-saving habit

Energy Secretary Sharon Garin is urging Filipino households and businesses to make energy conservation a regular habit, as the government rolls out a new initiative aimed at cutting electricity use and promoting long-term efficiency.

Garin made the appeal during the launch of the “Oras Natin sa Efficiency” (O.N.E.) Campaign last week at the globe structure of SM Mall of Asia in Pasay City, encouraging consumers to integrate energy-saving practices into their weekly routines.

Under the program, the public is encouraged to turn off lights and unplug unused appliances for one hour every Saturday from 8 p.m. to 9 p.m., as part of a broader effort to instill disciplined energy use.

However, Garin stressed that the initiative is not just about the weekly one-hour exercise but about shaping lasting behavioral change.

“A habit that stays with us through the week. A way of thinking about energy that becomes second nature at home, at work, and in everything we do. That is how a single hour becomes a lifestyle. A lifestyle that becomes part of nation building,” she said.

She cited data from Earth Hour observance last March 28, when electricity demand reportedly dropped by around 145 megawatts between 8:30 p.m. and 9:30 p.m.—an amount equivalent to the consumption of roughly one million households.

In a media interview, Garin also noted support from the private sector, particularly the SM Group, which has committed to helping promote and implement the campaign across its establishments.

She expressed optimism that other business groups would follow suit, helping expand the reach of the energy-saving initiative nationwide.

“I think the reset will just follow, and we will be happy if they accept our invitation to join this program,” she added.