Senior citizens and fisherfolk Felino and Blesilda Fajardo of Hagonoy, Bulacan, are among the 47 low-income families in Barangay Pugad who now have access to safe and reliable electricity, thanks to the efforts of the One Meralco Foundation (OMF) and Meralco.
Through its Household Electrification Program (HEP), the Manuel V. Pangilinan-led OMF energized homes in this fishing community, in partnership with Meralco’s Malolos Business Center and Plaridel Sector Office, as well as the local government. The initiative provided technical and financial assistance so these families could have their own service accounts with the power distributor.
Isla Pugad, reachable only by a 30-minute boat ride from Paombong port, has long been isolated from nearby towns. Many residents depend on fishing, boat rentals, and market vending for their livelihoods. Before this program, most households could not afford individual service entrances and relied on electricity submetering.
For decades, Felino and Blesilda Fajardo depended on their neighbors for power. With multiple households drawing electricity from a single source, Felino recalled their monthly bill reaching ₱300 just to power minimal lights and a fan—essential for preparing fishing nets for the next day. When Meralco and OMF offered assistance through the HEP, the couple applied immediately. Now with their own electricity meter, they can control their consumption, reduce costs, and even plan to add more appliances at home.
The program was implemented with the support of Barangay Pugad, led by Capt. Jimmy Gregorio, the local government of Hagonoy represented by Executive Assistant to Mayor Charo Sy-Alvarado, and Meralco, led by Head of Home & Micro North Business Alleni O. Pascual.
Capt. Gregorio expressed gratitude for OMF and Meralco’s support, highlighting the significance of clearing streets of dangling wires and helping low-income households gain independent electrical access—key steps toward the barangay’s goal of providing meters to all homes despite the logistical challenges.
OMF President Jeffrey O. Tarayao emphasized the program’s impact: “Our work in Barangay Pugad reminds us that reliable power should be available to everyone, regardless of distance or accessibility. By overcoming logistical, financial, and geographical barriers, we empower families to become more productive and improve their quality of life. Our mission continues to ensure that no one is left in the dark.”
Since 2011, OMF’s Household Electrification Program has energized over 85,000 low-income households within the Meralco franchise area, helping families boost productivity, increase income, and contribute to community development.