BACOLOD City — Effective November 12, the Bacolod City government has opened a nighttime co-working space at the Bacolod City Government Center (BCGC) to support online workers affected by recent typhoons and ongoing power outages.
The facility is available daily from 7 p.m. to 6:30 a.m. until electricity is reasonably restored.
Mayor Greg Gasataya said the initiative aims to provide a comfortable and secure environment for online workers to continue their livelihood despite the challenges posed by the prolonged outage.
“We are opening the BCGC lobby as a nighttime extension — a free co-working space where you can continue your work comfortably and securely amid the ongoing challenges brought by the recent typhoons,” Mayor Gasataya said.
He acknowledged the difficulties faced by virtual assistants and online workers, noting the significant impact of the power outage on their livelihood.
“We understand the difficulties, and we want to make sure you have a safe and reliable place to stay connected even after hours,” the mayor added.
Many online workers have relied on the daytime co-working space at Ayala Capitol Central, but Mayor Gasataya emphasized that the need extends beyond its 6:30 p.m. closing time.
The BCGC nighttime co-working space can accommodate 40 voice workers and 60 non-voice workers, providing a supportive environment for the online workforce during this challenging period. The mayor reminded users to bring their own extension cords and work essentials.
According to the Negros Electric and Power Corporation (Negros Power), power in Bacolod households is expected to be fully restored by Sunday, November 16, with all remaining areas across the franchise restored by Friday, November 21./PN
