The Department of Agrarian Reform-Negros Island Region (DAR-NIR) is promoting the use of bicycles and other modes of non-motorized transport for the daily commute of its officials and staff.

DAR-NIR Director Lucrecia Taberna led the launch of “Padyak to Work” (Pedal to Work) on Thursday at North Capitol Road here as a strategy to reduce fuel reliance and boost physical fitness.

“We thought of a strategy together with the president of the DAR Rank and File Employees Union on how we, at DAR-NIR, can contribute to fuel-saving measures,” Taberna said.

The “Padyak to Work” initiative kicked off with a ceremonial bike send-off from the North Capitol Road and a Zumba session at the Provincial Capitol Park and Lagoon.

The agency integrated the initiative into its gender and development (GAD) efforts to promote an inclusive environment prioritizing employee health and well-being.

The DAR-NIR regional office and its provincial offices currently adopt a four-day compressed workweek arrangement in compliance with Malacañang’s Memorandum Circular (MC) 114.

Under the setup, offices under the DAR-NIR are open Monday to Thursday, from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m.

MC 114 directs all government agencies to ensure the strict adoption of energy conservation measures amid ongoing geopolitical tensions in the Middle East. (PNA)