MANILA — Sen. Imee R. Marcos criticized the Department of Energy (DOE) over its implementation of a two-day onsite work arrangement, under which only 50 percent of employees are required to physically report to office twice a week.

Marcos said the policy comes at a time when the country is facing an energy crisis and rising fuel prices, questioning the agency’s visibility in addressing the situation.

“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 also took a swipe at the timing of the arrangement, saying, “Hindi dahil summer, makikisabay kayo sa bakasyon! Sana all papetiks-petiks lang!”

The senator said Malacañang had issued a directive on a four-day work week as a cost-saving measure for energy consumption, and not to reduce government service delivery.

She also noted that while government agencies are adjusting work arrangements, the private sector continues to operate on a Monday-to-Friday schedule.

“Habang naka-relax sa two-day work set-up ang DOE, yung mga ordinaryong mangggawa tila hindi na magawang makakain at makapagpahinga nang maayos!” she said.

Marcos further questioned the DOE’s commitment to its mandate amid the ongoing situation.

“Iniisip ko tuloy—tinataguan niyo ba ang responsibilidad niyo? Kung hindi niyo kayang panindigan ‘yang mga posisyon niyo, magbitiw na lang kayo!” she said.

She stressed that the energy sector requires stronger presence and leadership during a crisis.

“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 added, “Hindi puwedeng kalahati ang pasok, kalahati rin ang solusyon. Buong trabaho ang kailangan ng taumbayan.”