In a simple but heartwarming gathering that underscored its commitment to recognizing the invaluable contributions of its people, Manuel V. Pangilinan-led Manila Electric Company (Meralco) honored long-time employees whose dedication and hard work sustained the company through the years and made a lasting impact on the lives of millions of Filipinos.
The men and women of the country’s largest power distributor – aptly called “Tagapaghatid ng Liwanag” or bearers of light – have been instrumental in fulfilling Meralco’s mission of keeping the lights on, persevering through decades of challenges and changes.
BUILDING A LEGACY. Meralco Vice President and Head of Corporate Communications Joe R. Zaldarriaga rose the ranks in his 35 years in the company, engaging with external stakeholders to communicate the initiatives of the distribution utility.
Meralco Vice President and Head of Facilities and Safety Management Jerry B. Lao, Meralco Vice President and Chief Information Security Officer Marilene P. Tayag, Meralco Head of Distribution Utility Business Development Office Andrew Jason B. Tan, Meralco Chief Supply Chain Officer Maria Luisa V. Alvendia, Meralco Senior Vice President and Head of Human Resources Edgardo V. Carasig, Mr. Meralco Senior Vice President and Chief Revenue Officer Ferdinand O. Geluz, Meralco Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer Ronnie L. Aperocho, Meralco Senior Vice President and Chief Audit Executive Melanie T. Oteyza, Meralco First Vice President and Head of Information, Communication, Technology & Transformation Rocky D. Bacani, Meralco Vice President and Head of Supply Chain Management Glen N. San Pedro, and Meralco First Vice President and Head of MPower Redel M. Domingo.
A total of 150 employees were honored – five of whom have served for 25 years, 27 for 30 years, and a record-breaking 118 employees with 35 years of service. Each of them has a different story to tell for their careers that were grounded on their commitment and sacrifices.
Among the honorees were frontliners, engineers, and support staff—employees from all ranks who worked tirelessly behind the scenes to ensure delivery of stable, reliable and safe electricity service.
These individuals represent the heart and soul of Meralco, and many of them spent their entire careers, growing and evolving with the company.
Meralco Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer Ronnie L. Aperocho emphasized the importance of having dedicated employees from across the ranks who are committed to public service even as their journeys were filled with extraordinary challenges.
From enduring natural disasters like super typhoons and floods to navigating the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, Meralco’s long-time employees have displayed remarkable resilience and a relentless commitment to their work.
“Our blessings and successes did not come by accident. We achieved this because of malasakit, sacrifice, loyalty, commitment and hard work of the men and women of Meralco who brought the company to where it is today. Kayo ang tunay na liwanag ng Meralco,” said Aperocho.
“My prayer is for the good Lord to bless your hands and minds that have served this company with integrity and excellence. may your efforts continue to bear fruit especially for the lives that you have touched along the way bilang tagapaghatid ng liwanag at pag-asa,” he said.
Representing the service awardees in this year’s celebration was Joe R. Zaldarriaga, Meralco’s Vice President and Head of Corporate Communications, who openly shared the overwhelming surge of pride he felt when he saw his name alongside many remarkable Meralco legacy employees.
“To be counted among those who have served Meralco with unwavering loyalty, dedicating ourselves to our customers, communities, country—and, in my case, to defending the company and building lasting relationships with our external stakeholders—is an honor I will treasure all the days of my life,” said Zaldarriaga who was among those recognized for 35 years of service.
MERALCO’s AWARD-WINNING AND VETERAN COMMUNICATOR. Known to many as Manong Joe, Meralco Vice President and Head of Corporate Communications Joe R. Zaldarriaga has established himself as a household name and the trusted spokesman of the distribution utility for his 35 years of service to the company.
The celebration of service beyond years also served as an opportunity to reflect on Meralco’s growthover the years—from a modest electric utility company to a recognized leader in the energy sector.
Meralco evolved, transformed and remained at the forefront of progress – delivering essential service and innovative solutions that cater to the growing needs of Filipino consumers.
For Zaldarriaga, Meralco Chairman and CEO Pangilinan’s leadership served as the compass that propels the company to continue creating value to Meralco stakeholders.
“Retirement looms for many of us boomers present here today, but I have no doubt about Meralco’s future. With visionary leaders at the helm, Meralco is in excellent hands. The companywill not only endure but thrive, continuing its legacy of excellence for another 25, 35, 50, and even 120 years and beyond,” said Zaldarriaga.
Meralco recognizes that its employees serve as the company’s backbone — the ones who embrace innovation and transform them into programs, services and initiatives that will meet the growing and evolving demands its stakeholders. For the power distributor, the lifetime of impact of these exceptional individuals— the country’s true light bearers — will drive Meralco to become an even
better, brighter, stronger partner of customers, communities, and the country.
