Consumers in Batangas may soon see more reliable and efficient electricity service with the proposed joint venture between Manila Electric Co. (Meralco) and Batangas II Electric Cooperative (BATELEC II), which has gained strong support from local business and civic leaders.

The Batangas Forum for Good Governance and Development Association, Inc. said over the weekend that the partnership is expected to significantly improve power quality and stability in areas served by BATELEC II.

Composed of business and civic leaders, professionals, and Batangas residents, the group has long flagged frequent power problems that disrupt business operations and hinder growth in the province.

In a resolution dated 29 October, signed by its Chairman, President, Vice President, and Board of Trustees, the Batangas Forum formalized its full endorsement of the joint venture.

With Meralco’s financial and operational track record, the group said the power distributor can bring in the systems, investments, and operational discipline needed to deliver more dependable service to local enterprises and communities — as it has successfully done in Batangas City, Sto. Tomas City and San Pascual.

The group added that partnerships between the private sector and electric cooperatives, such as BATELEC II, could provide concrete solutions for infrastructure modernization, stronger distribution systems, and meeting growing consumer demand for power.

The Batangas Forum also urged BATELEC II to “safeguard employee welfare, maintain fair employment opportunities, and promote professional development” as part of the process.

The group further called on the local government, business sector, and communities to support the initiative and ensure close coordination, transparent communication, and regular updates to member-consumers on the joint venture proposal.

BATELEC II distributes electricity in the cities of Lipa and Tanauan, and 15 municipalities: Alitagtag, Balete, Cuenca, Laurel, Lobo, Malvar, Mataas na Kahoy, Mabini, Padre Garcia, Rosario, San Jose, San Juan, Talisay, Taysan and Tingloy.