Senator Imee Marcos on Monday criticized the Department of Energy (DOE) for adopting a two-day onsite work arrangement, saying the setup sends the wrong signal at a time when fuel prices continue to climb and concerns over energy stability persist.
In her statement, Marcos accused the agency of failing to act decisively, noting that only half of its employees are physically reporting to the office.
“DOE, gising! Kung sino pa dapat kumikilos, sila pa ang missing in action! Ano ba naman kayo? Kayo lang sa buong gobyerno ang ganyan,” Marcos said.
She questioned whether the DOE was using the summer season as an excuse to reduce its on-site presence.
“Hindi dahil summer, makikisabay kayo sa bakasyon! Sana all papetiks-petiks lang!” she added.
Marcos stressed that Malacañang’s directive allowing a four-day workweek was meant to conserve energy, not diminish government service.
She contrasted DOE’s reduced schedule with private companies that continue to operate on full shifts.
“Habang naka-relax sa two-day work set-up ang DOE, yung mga ordinaryong manggawa tila hindi na magawang makakain at makapagpahinga nang maayos!” Marcos said.
The senator further challenged DOE officials to explain whether they are fulfilling their mandate, warning that they should take responsibility or step aside.
“Ano na, DOE? Ngayon pa talaga kayo nawalan ng energy magtrabaho?” she said.
“Hindi puwedeng kalahati ang pasok, kalahati rin ang solusyon. Buong trabaho ang kailangan ng taumbayan,” she added.
Marcos’ remarks highlight mounting scrutiny over the DOE’s work arrangements as the country grapples with rising fuel costs and energy supply concerns.