The Manuel V. Pangilinan-led Manila Electric Company (Meralco) once again proved its excellence in business communications, earning the coveted “Company of the Year” recognition at the 21st Philippine Quill Awards after amassing an impressive 36 wins across multiple categories.
Meralco secured 10 Awards of Excellence and 26 Awards of Merit for its wide-ranging communications initiatives focused on customer service, sustainability, corporate social responsibility, public safety, and digital transformation.
“This honor affirms the vital role of strategic communication in advancing Meralco’s mission to keep the lights on. Being named Company of the Year inspires us to continue raising the bar in using clear, timely, and relevant communication as a driver of positive change that empowers the communities we serve and builds trust with our stakeholders,” said Joe R. Zaldarriaga, Meralco Vice President and Head of Corporate Communications.
This latest milestone makes Meralco the only company to win “Company of the Year” five times, underscoring its dual leadership—not only as the country’s largest power distributor but also as a benchmark for effective and impactful corporate communication.
Meralco’s award-winning programs covered a wide spectrum: from customer-focused campaigns such as the Lifeline Rate Program and the Interruptible Load Program, to sustainability and inclusivity initiatives that promoted renewable energy, diversity, and even urban farming. The company also spearheaded public safety efforts through the Anti-Urban Blight program and electrical safety drives, while pushing forward digital innovations like the Meralco Newsroom and Manong Joe online platforms. On the social responsibility front, Meralco invested in electrification projects for marginalized communities and livelihood development initiatives, complemented by data-driven campaigns and stakeholder engagement activities that strengthened transparency and trust. Through these efforts, Meralco demonstrated how strategic communication drives performance, builds public trust, and contributes to nation-building.
Now on its 21st year, the Philippine Quill Awards, organized by the International Association of Business Communicators (IABC) Philippines, remains the country’s premier recognition program for organizations that exemplify excellence in communication to achieve goals and create social impact.