(L-R)Mr. Arnel D. Casanova-Meralco Chief External and Government Affair Officer,Msgr. Ruben Dimaculangan-Vicar and Parish Priest of San Sebastian Cathedral, Archbishop Most Rev. Gilbert Garcera, Lipa City Mayor Eric B. Africa, Meralco Chief Operating Officer and One Meralco Foundation Trustee-Mr. Ronnie L. Aperocho and Meralco Chief Corporate Social Responsibility Officer and One Meralco Foundation President –Mr. Jeffrey O. Tarayao
AS the first week of December marks the beginning of Advent, the Manila Electric Company (Meralco) and the One Meralco Foundation, in partnership with the Archdiocese of Lipa, ushered in the season of hope and anticipation with a ceremonial lighting of the San Sebastian Cathedral in Lipa City, Batangas. Alongside the lighting ceremony, 1,020 solar lamps were distributed to 68 parishes across Batangas, providing much-needed illumination for church patios—especially in preparation for the upcoming Misa de Gallo.
In his welcome remarks, Msgr. Ruben Dimaculangan, Vicar General and Parish Priest of the San Sebastian Cathedral, reflected on the meaning of Advent as a symbol of hope, unity, and renewal. He expressed gratitude to Meralco and the One Meralco Foundation for bringing light—both literal and symbolic—to communities amid the challenges faced by the country. Their initiative, he said, adds color, joy, and brightness to the season as parishes prepare for the traditional dawn masses and Christmas celebrations.
Atty. Arnel D. Casanova, Meralco’s Chief External and Government Affairs Officer, highlighted the company’s core value of “malasakit”, or compassionate service. He explained that the act of lighting churches and providing solar lamps is intended to kindle hope among communities. “Meralco aims to serve as an instrument that brings people closer to the Lord,” he shared. Beyond the lighting initiative, the One Meralco Foundation will also distribute 6,800 Noche Buena packages to the 68 parishes.
The ceremony was attended by Archbishop Gilbert Garcera, who personally conveyed his appreciation to the leadership of Meralco and the One Meralco Foundation, particularly acknowledging Mr. Manny Pangilinan, President and Chief Executive Officer of Meralco, for their sustained support. Other notable attendees included Lipa City Mayor Eric B. Africa; Meralco Chief Operating Officer and One Meralco Foundation Trustee Jeffrey O. Tarayao; and Meralco Chief Corporate Social Responsibility Officer and OMF President.
The One Meralco Foundation, Meralco’s corporate social responsibility arm, continues to champion programs that uplift Filipino communities. Its mission centers on delivering meaningful initiatives aimed at addressing local needs, strengthening community resilience, and enriching the lives of families across the country.
Through light, generosity, and shared purpose, this year’s Advent celebration in Batangas becomes not just a tradition—but a testament to solidarity and compassion.
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