Bacolod Mayor Greg Gasataya is entertaining the possibility of creating a permanent co-working space for virtual assistants and online professionals in the future, City Administrator Mark Mayo said on Thursday, Nov. 13.
However, the venue would not be at the lobby of the Bacolod City Government Center (BCGC), they would have to look for another space, he said.
In response to widespread power outages and intermittent internet connections, Gasataya has opened the BCGC lobby as a co-working space for virtual assistants and online professionals to continue their work uninterrupted from 7 p.m. to 6:30 a.m. until electricity is fully restored in the city.
“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,” the city government announced.
To register for a slot one can visit this link: tinyurl.com/BCGCCoWorkingSpace.
There are limited slots: 40 for voice, 60 non-voice with free coffee, aircon, and Wi-Fi while one works, the mayor announced on his Facebook page.
“If you’ve reserved a slot and can’t make it, we’d appreciate it if you inform us ahead of time by replying to our confirmation email so we can give it to someone else in need,” he said.
Bring your own extension cord and work essentials, proof of employment to ensure that the space is used by legitimate VAs and online workers, and a valid ID with Bacolod City residence, the mayor said.
“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, Gasataya, together with the Management Information Technology and Computer Services (MITCS) and other key offices, initiated these 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. Since the typhoon hit, we’ve been struggling to pay hotels and cafes just to have stable connections and electricity,” he said.
“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.”
Many online professionals have also been using the city’s existing co-working hub at Ayala Capitol Central, which operates until 6:30 p.m.*