Driving and heightening sustainability: Meralco’s commitment to a brighter tomorrow

As the country’s largest electric distribution utility, the Manuel V. Pangilinan-led Manila Electric Company (Meralco) is driving transformative change through its sustainability initiatives that extend beyond business, demonstrating a bold commitment to redefining the future of energy in the Philippines.

Deeply rooted in the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (UN SDGs), Meralco’s sustainability agenda, “Powering the Good Life”, is built on four key pillars — Power, Planet, People, and Prosperity — ensuring that sustainability is at the heart of its strategy and operations. From pioneering renewable energy solutions to empowering local communities, Meralco continues to make significant strides toward a brighter future.

This commitment has earned the company recognition from prestigious global and local organizations, reinforcing its leadership in sustainable energy and corporate responsibility.

Sustainability that shines on the world stage

At the 2024 International Business Awards (IBAs) in Istanbul, Turkey, Meralco won eight (8) Stevie Awards for its achievements in sustainability, corporate social responsibility, employee engagement, and innovation:

• Gold Stevie Award

— For the second consecutive year, Meralco First Vice President and Chief Sustainability Officer Raymond B. Ravelo was honored as the Sustainability Hero of the Year in Asia, Australia, and New Zealand. Ravelo who likewise serves as President and CEO of Movem Electric Inc., was also the lone winner of the Gold Award.

• Silver Stevie Awards

— Meralco’s sustainability campaign, Powering the Good Life, was recognized under the Sustainability Leadership Award in Asia, Australia, and New Zealand category.

— One Meralco Foundation President and Meralco Chief Corporate Social Responsibility Officer Jeffrey O. Tarayao was named Thought Leader of the Year for Non-Profit or Government.

— One Meralco Foundation: Leading Energy for Productivity in Underprivileged Communities in the Philippines (Awarded under Organization of the Year – Non-Profit or Government for its impact on underserved communities)

• Bronze Stevie Awards

— #Mbrace: Meralco’s Diversity and Inclusion Program (Recognized for promoting gender balance and inclusivity in the workplace)

— Nurturing a Vibrant Workforce: Meralco’s Approach to Engagement and Retention (Commended for fostering a strong workplace culture)

— The 9th Meralco Luminaries: Brighter New World (Celebrated for recognizing stakeholders who drive the nation’s progress)

— Lighting the Way: Meralco’s Customer Experience Dashboard for Sales Analysis (Highlighted for leveraging competitive intelligence to enhance customer service)

“These recognitions bring great honor to all of us in One Meralco. They signify that we are on the right track and that we have set the bar for excellence, putting us at par, if not better, than the global best. These truly inspire us as we continue powering the good life for our customers, communities, constituents, and the country,” Ravelo said.

“Our CSR programs are driven by the goal of empowering marginalized communities. These recognitions further strengthen our resolve to implement more initiatives that will enable them to become more self-reliant,” Tarayao said.

Since its inception in 2002, the International Business Awards have recognized outstanding achievements across industries worldwide. Dubbed the “Olympics for the Workplace,” last year’s competition attracted over 3,600 nominations from 62 countries, with winners selected by more than 300 executives globally.

Advancing gender equality and diversity

Meralco’s commitment to fostering inclusivity was also recognized at the 2024 Women Empowerment Principles (WEPs) Awards by UN Women, where it was awarded First Runner-Up honors in the Gender-Responsive Marketplace category.

The company’s #Mbrace Diversity and Inclusion Program was commended for championing gender balance and equal opportunities in both the workplace and marketplace.

The WEPs, established in 2010 by UN Women and the UN Global Compact, serve as a global benchmark for organizations striving for a more equitable and inclusive future. The 2024 WEPs Awards received over 1,500 applications from more than 1,000 participating companies across 21 countries in the Asia-Pacific region.

Sustained excellence in sustainability

Further cementing its position as a sustainability leader in the energy sector, Meralco secured top honors at the inaugural Triple P Awards, organized by the International Association of Business Communications (IABC), Deloitte, and the Makati Business Club.

• Excellence in ESG Performance in Energy Distribution — Recognized Meralco for outstanding integration of environmental, social, and governance (ESG) principles into its operations.

• ESG Thought Leader of the Year — Awarded to Ravelo for his visionary leadership in crafting, driving, and heightening Meralco’s sustainability agenda.

The IABC’s Triple P Awards recognize businesses for their commitment to transparency, sustainable business practices, and impactful communication.

These accolades reaffirm Meralco's pledge to build a brighter, more sustainable, and inclusive future for all.