In response to widespread power outages and intermittent internet connection, Mayor Greg Gasataya opened the Bacolod City Government Center Co-Working Space to the public, allowing virtual assistants and online professionals to continue their work uninterrupted.
The BCGC lobby has been transformed into a free co-working space, offering stable internet connectivity through PLDT and Globe Telecommunications, along with a safe and conducive working environment for residents affected by the outages.
“We know these past days have been incredibly challenging, especially for virtual assistants and online workers. We understand how these power interruptions have impacted your livelihood,” Gasataya said.
While the city continues to work closely with the Negros Electric and Power Corporation (NEPC) for full power restoration after the onslaught of Typhoon Tino, the mayor, together with the Management Information Technology and Computer Services (MITCS) and other key offices, initiated this proactive measures to assist Bacolod’s expanding community of online professionals.
Among the first to benefit from the facility was Jan Ray Develos, a 28-year-old virtual assistant and part-time choreographer from Barangay Cabug.
“It really helps a lot, especially for us who work night shifts.”
“It really helps a lot, especially for us who work night shifts. Since the typhoon hit, we’ve been struggling to pay for hotels and cafes just to have a stable connection and electricity — something our salary can barely sustain,” Develos shared, expressing gratitude to the city government.
Many online professionals have also been using the city’s existing co-working hub at Ayala Capitol Central, which operates until 6:30 PM. Recognizing the continued need for a workspace beyond those hours, the city opened the BCGC lobby as a nighttime co-working extension.
“We’ve been lining up in cafés and spending over ₱500 a day just to stay connected.”
“It’s a great setup, we feel comfortable here,” said Bless Vargas, 27, who registered online to secure a slot. “We’ve been lining up in cafés and spending over ₱500 a day just to stay connected. We really need this kind of support.”
Since November 12, the nighttime co-working space operates daily from 7:00 PM to 6:30 AM until power is fully restored.
The facility can accommodate up to 40 voice-based and 60 non-voice workers. Free coffee is available at the lobby, and participants are advised to bring their own extension cords and work essentials.
As the city government continues its massive clearing operations to aid power and telecommunications restoration, Gasataya also expressed gratitude to private sector partners assisting in the recovery efforts.
