Manila, March 20 -- The Iloilo provincial government has mandated stricter energy and fuel conservation protocols to cushion the impact of rising fuel prices.

"Considering the potential continuous increase in fuel prices and its consequential impact on the economy, industries and the general public, there is a need to strengthen the implementation of energy conservation, efficiency and austerity measures to mitigate its adverse effects on public resources and the welfare of the people," Governor Arthur Defensor Jr. said in his Executive Order (EO) No. 034 released on Thursday night.

Defensor said travels will be limited to essential and necessary functions, and virtual meetings will be used for inter-agency coordination, meetings, and s...