Manuel V. Pangilinan-led Manila Electric Company (Meralco), through One Meralco Foundation (OMF), has mobilized relief assistance for communities affected by the recent strong earthquake that struck Southern Mindanao.
As part of its immediate response efforts, OMF started the distribution food packs, bottled water, drinking water, and solar lanterns to affected residents and institutions in General Santos City, Sarangani, and nearby areas. Meralco and OMF are also working closely with local partners to ensure that relief reaches hospitals, evacuation areas, and communities requiring urgent assistance.
Among the initial beneficiaries are hospitals and health facilities serving affected residents, including St. Elizabeth Hospital, Socsargen County Hospital, and other facilities that have requested drinking water and other urgent supplies. Additional relief assistance is also being prepared for affected coastal communities, including areas in Glan, Sarangani.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with the people of Southern Mindanao, especially the families, communities, health workers, emergency responders, and utility personnel affected by this earthquake,” said Ronnie L. Aperocho, Meralco Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer. “In times like this, the spirit of bayanihan even becomes more meaningful. Meralco and One Meralco Foundation will continue to extend assistance to affecting communities and support recovery efforts in whatever way we can.”
In line with Meralco’s long-standing commitment to mutual assistance and industry cooperation among distribution utilities, the company also formally offered power restoration support to South Cotabato II Electric Cooperative, Inc. (SOCOTECO II), whose franchise area includes General Santos City and parts of Sarangani and South Cotabato.
“As an expression of solidarity with SOCOTECO II and the communities it serves, Meralco has offered to deploy technical personnel, line crews, and equipment to help accelerate the inspection, repair, and restoration activities,” Aperocho said, adding this will be subject to appropriate coordination arrangements with the electric cooperative.
Meralco recognizes the critical role of electricity in disaster response and recovery efforts. Along with OMF, the company will continue to coordinate with local government units and partners to identify additional needs and extend further assistance to the affected communities.
