Meralco named Emerging Changemaker of the Year

Manila Electric Company (Meralco) was named Emerging Changemaker of the Year at the 2026 Bahaghari Awards of the Philippine Financial & Inter-industry Pride (PFIP), recognizing its efforts to advance diversity, equity, and inclusion in the workplace.

The Bahaghari Awards recognize organizations that challenge conventional practices and contribute to building more inclusive workplaces and communities.

Meralco’s recognition comes as the company continues to implement its enterprise-wide #Mbrace Diversity and Inclusion program, launched in 2021 initially to advance women’s empowerment and later expanded to include LGBTQ+ employees and persons with disabilities (PWDs).

Through #Mbrace, Meralco has undertaken initiatives including Pride Month activities, rainbow crosswalks at its Ortigas headquarters and sector offices, employee storytelling campaigns, and group posters highlighting support for diversity and inclusion.

In partnership with PFIP, Meralco has also conducted forums and webinars such as “Proud to Be Me” and “Safe to Be Me,” focusing on gender, safe spaces, and practical ways employees can promote inclusion and allyship.

Beyond Pride Month activities, Meralco has expanded all-gender and universal restrooms across its facilities as part of efforts to improve accessibility and inclusivity in the workplace.

Meralco Chief Sustainability Officer Raymond B. Ravelo said the recognition reflects the company’s effort to integrate inclusion into its broader sustainability agenda.

“As an Emerging Changemaker, we see #Mbrace not just as a program but as a movement woven into our sustainability agenda, ‘Powering the Good Life.’ From opening pathways for women in a male-dominated industry, to creating safe spaces for LGBTQ+ colleagues, and building opportunities for PWDs, we show that true sustainability is about creating workplaces where everyone can contribute and belong.”

Ravelo added that inclusion strengthens the workforce and culture while giving employees opportunities to thrive.

Meralco said #Mbrace forms part of its broader “Powering the Good Life” sustainability agenda, anchored on the pillars of Power, Planet, People, and Prosperity.