Meralco Powers Railway Renaissance

Manuel V. Pangilinan-led Manila Electric Company (Meralco) has committed to playing a vital role in advancing the government’s ambitious railway infrastructure projects.

Powering Railway Renaissance. Meralco pledges full support to the Department of Transportation's (DOTr) priority railway projects through the timely execution of pole relocation and energization activities. During the business review session (L-R): Meralco Executive Vice President and COO Ronnie L. Aperocho, DOTr Secretary Jaime J. Bautista, and Meralco Senior Vice President and Chief Revenue Officer Ferdinand O. Geluz. | Photo: Meralco/DoTr

Through timely implementation of pole relocation and energization activities, Meralco is set to support the Department of Transportation’s (DOTr) major railway initiatives that aim to revolutionize the country’s transportation landscape.

In a high-level business review session with DOTr officials, Meralco reinforced its dedication to powering key railway projects such as the North-South Commuter Railway (NSCR) connecting Manila, Malolos, and Clark, the Metro Manila Subway, LRT Line 1 Cavite Extension, MRT 7, and the Unified Grand Central Station.

Senior Vice President and Chief Revenue Officer Ferdinand O. Geluz assured the DOTr of Meralco’s unwavering commitment to ensure that all necessary pole relocation works and energization activities proceed without delay.

“On the ground, there are regular meetings held to ensure that all projects of the DOTr are given end-to-end support from Meralco; from facility relocation to powering transportation infrastructure,” Geluz said.

So far, Meralco has completed half of the pole relocation work orders scheduled for 2024. 

To support the continued expansion of the country’s railway system, the power distributor will relocate 367 remaining poles this year alone, giving way to the progress of priority railway projects.

“Meralco recognizes that strong, meaningful collaborations between the private and public sectors will ultimately benefit the commuting public,” stated Meralco Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer Ronnie L. Aperocho.

Meralco’s collaboration with the government has already yielded notable results.

In February, the company partnered with the DOTr to develop a new 115kV switching station, which will provide reliable electricity for the Metro Manila Subway Project—slated for completion in 2026.

This project underscores Meralco’s role in providing critical power infrastructure for the country’s first underground railway system.

As the country continues its "Railway Renaissance," Meralco’s efforts highlight the power distributor’s dedication to advancing national development goals.

By powering these vital infrastructure projects, Meralco not only enhances mobility but also strengthens the country’s economic growth potential, helping build a more connected and prosperous future for the Philippines.