Manuel V. Pangilinan-led Manila Electric Company and Landco Pacific Corporation have joined forces to deliver free spaying and neutering services for community and owned pets in San Juan, Batangas. The initiative, held from November 18 to 19 at Club Laiya, benefited 250 cats and dogs from Barangay Laiya Aplaya and nearby communities, and included free anti rabies vaccinations to help prevent disease transmission and promote safer neighborhoods.
The two day activity, jointly organized by Meralco, One Meralco Foundation, and Landco, aims to address concerns on rabies and the growing population of community animals in the Laiya beach area. Several resorts have observed an increase in stray cats and dogs, which in some instances has raised safety concerns among guests.
“Through responsible animal population management and strong collaboration with Meralco CATropa and our partners, we are advancing long term, sustainable solutions that safeguard animal welfare and uphold public safety. Our goal is to ensure that Laiya remains a harmonious and welcoming destination for generations to come,” said Jhem Fauni Azarcon, Project Director and Head of Community Development of Landco Pacific Corporation.
Provincial Agriculturist Rodrigo Bautista welcomed the effort, emphasizing the value of community cooperation. “We fully support this program because this will help reduce cases of rabies. Let us work together, because community participation is important if we want to stop rabies and live in a healthy community,” he said.
As part of the activity, Biyaya Animal Care conducted a specialized training session on the flank method to equip provincial veterinarians with advanced techniques for managing animal overpopulation. Maxime and UNAHCO Yumyum Dog Food also extended support by distributing freebies to participants and their pets.
Meralco has long implemented its Trap Neuter Vaccinate and Return program to manage the population of community animals in its facilities. Through its Spay It Forward campaign, the company partners with various organizations and local government units to expand the reach of its animal welfare efforts.
“We believe that caring for animals is part of caring for people. Through programs like this, we hope to inspire others to act because every life matters and every effort counts. We invite everyone to continue working together so that every animal receives the care they deserve,” said Jeffrey O. Tarayao, Meralco Chief CSR Officer and President of One Meralco Foundation.
Meralco Vice President and Head of Corporate Communications Joe R. Zaldarriaga echoed the company’s commitment. “Animal welfare is a core part of our malasakit culture at Meralco. Through partnerships like this, we strive to create safer and kinder communities, one initiative at a time,” he said.
Since its launch in 2024, the animal welfare campaign has supported more than 670 cats and dogs in various communities, underscoring Meralco’s commitment to inclusive and sustainable development through humane practices.