Meralco PowerGen Corp. (MGEN) has named Arnel Santos president and chief executive officer of MGEN Thermal Energy Inc., effective July, as it has completed Global Business Power Corp.’s (GBP) transition into MGEN’s dedicated thermal power platform.

“This leadership transition positions us strongly for both today’s operational priorities and tomorrow’s growth opportunities,” MGEN president and CEO Emmanuel Rubio said on Monday.

The appointment of Santos follows the Securities and Exchange Commission’s approval of the company’s rebranding to MGEN Thermal Energy, aligning it more closely with MGEN’s generation portfolio.

Santos succeeds Felino “Lino” Bernardo and steps up from his previous role as senior vice president and chief operating officer.

A chemical engineering graduate of the University of the Philippines, Santos brings more than 30 years of experience spanning energy, refining, petrochemicals and industrial technology.

On the other hand, MGEN also appointed Sam Manlosa as chief operating officer, effective July.

Together, Santos and Manlosa will focus on improving performance, strengthening asset reliability, and advancing operational excellence.

Bernardo, meanwhile, will take on the role of head of strategic energy transition at MGEN under a two-year engagement ending June 2028.

He will oversee key projects, including Atimonan One Energy and the Toledo expansion, while leading nuclear energy studies and advising on LNG and indigenous gas initiatives.