Meralco’s recent initiative, “Greening the Meralco Operating Center,” marks a significant stride in urban sustainability. Under the One for Trees program, the company aims to transform its Pasig City headquarters into what it describes as “the lungs of the Ortigas business district.” This ambitious project, launched in partnership with Celeasco, saw the planting of over a thousand seedlings, underscoring the growing recognition of urban green spaces as critical to environmental health.
As of the end of September, the One for Trees program has planted a staggering 2,400,803 trees across the Philippines. This figure isn’t just a number; it represents Meralco’s commitment to combating climate change and enhancing biodiversity in urban settings. The company’s efforts are not limited to tree planting; they extend to social development, with the One Meralco Foundation (OMF) aiding 7,059 families in the third quarter of 2024 alone. Initiatives like the energization of low-income households and the provision of solar lamps to indigenous families in Puerto Princesa City highlight the foundation’s holistic approach to community upliftment.
Meralco is also stepping up to support national security efforts, providing solar lamps to the Philippine Marine Corps, specifically the Marine Battalion Landing Team-9. These lamps illuminate the Kalayaan Island Group, a strategic area in the West Philippine Sea, showcasing how corporate social responsibility can intersect with national interests. On the disaster response front, OMF’s swift distribution of relief packs to families affected by natural calamities demonstrates a proactive commitment to social welfare.
Education is another crucial pillar of Meralco’s community engagement. The “Balik Eskwela” program, which benefited over 1,200 kindergarten students, reflects the company’s dedication to fostering quality education. Coupled with initiatives like the distribution of 150 home solar kits to residents in Sitio Tamale, Nueva Ecija, Meralco is bridging the electricity gap in underserved areas, ensuring that no community is left behind.
In the realm of public health, OMF’s support for MGEN’s Adopt-a-Health Center Program has positively impacted 35 health centers and clinics across various regions. This kind of investment in health infrastructure is vital, especially in a country where access to quality healthcare remains a challenge.
Meralco’s commitment to sustainability is further validated by its improved ESG rating from Sustainalytics, placing it in the top 39% of global electric utilities. This recognition reflects strong management of critical areas such as carbon emissions and community relations. Additionally, being the only Philippine electric utility in the FTSE4Good Index for four consecutive years speaks volumes about Meralco’s dedication to corporate governance and ethical practices.
As Meralco continues to roll out programs that benefit its stakeholders, the accolades it garners from prestigious organizations are not mere trophies; they are testaments to a sustained commitment to excellence in business performance and social responsibility. This multifaceted approach not only enhances Meralco’s brand reputation but also sets a benchmark for other companies in the sector. The ripple effects of these initiatives could very well inspire a wave of similar programs, pushing the energy sector towards a more sustainable and socially responsible future.
