PAWS recognizes Meralco for animal welfare efforts

MANILA, Philippines — Power giant Manila Electric Co. (Meralco) has been recognized by the Philippine Animal Welfare Society (PAWS) for its commitment to promoting the well-being and protection of animals.

Over the weekend, PAWS honored Meralco with the Platinum Paw Award, said to be the highest recognition bestowed to individuals and organizations that champion animal welfare in the country.

PAWS executive director Anna Cabrera said Meralco “walks the talk” in advancing the cause, hoping that other companies would follow suit by integrating animal welfare in their corporate culture and policies.

“I think they are the only company that can brag to have all these, and we’re very proud to be a partner of Meralco,” Cabrera said.

The power distributor, chaired by tycoon Manuel V. Pangilinan, has been a staunch ally of PAWS since 2001, when it offered space on its property in Quezon City to build an animal shelter.

“For decades, Meralco has been the biggest donor to PAWS’ advocacy by providing shelter to the animal victims of abuse and providing a venue for the PAWS low-cost spay-neuter clinic,” Cabrera said.

Meralco advocacy communications management head Michelle Caguioa, who received the award on behalf of the company, said the award “reinforces our dedication to creating a sustainable future where people and animals coexist in harmony.”

The power distributor runs its own animal welfare program called “CATropa,” which aims to create a safe space for community animals.

At the heart of this initiative is the “Spay It Forward” program, which involves the implementation of TNVR or trap-neuter-vaccinate-return activities.