MANILA, Philippines — On 03 November 2025, the Batangas Forum for Good Governance and Development Association, Inc. strongly backed the proposed joint venture between Manila Electric Company (Meralco) and Batangas II Electric Cooperative (BATELEC II), expected to significantly improve power quality and reliability in areas served by the cooperative.

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

The Batangas Forum formalized its full endorsement of the joint venture through a resolution dated 29 October 2025, signed by its chairman, president, vice president, and board of trustees.

Citing Meralco’s financial and operational track record, the group believes the distribution utility can bring systems, investments, and operational discipline needed to deliver more dependable service to local enterprises and communities, as it has done in Batangas City, Sto. Tomas City, and San Pascual.

Partnerships between the private sector and electric cooperatives like BATELEC II, the forum said, will provide concrete solutions in infrastructure modernization, strengthen electricity distribution systems, and meet growing consumer demand.

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.

In expressing support, the Batangas Forum emphasized that the Meralco-BATELEC II joint venture is a key step toward more efficient and reliable electricity service. It also called on BATELEC II to safeguard employee welfare, maintain fair employment opportunities, and promote professional development throughout the process.

The group urged local government units, businesses, and communities to support the initiative and ensure close coordination, transparent communication, and regular updates to member-consumers on the joint venture proposal.