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In a move to support the resilience and competitiveness of the Philippine steel sector, the Manila Electric Company (Meralco) and the Philippine Iron & Steel Institute (PISI) recently sat down for a strategic dialogue to tackle the challenges and opportunities shaping the industry today.

The meeting, held at the Meralco Operating Center in Pasig City, brought together key leaders from both organizations. Leading the discussion were Meralco Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Manuel V. Pangilinan and PISI President Jojo Magsajo. They were joined by Meralco Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer Ronnie L. Aperocho and Senior Vice President and Chief Revenue Officer Ferdinand O. Geluz.

With global markets facing increasing economic headwinds and geopolitical uncertainties, the Philippine steel industry is at a critical juncture. Recognizing this, Meralco and PISI exchanged insights grounded in PISI’s in-depth industry data and experience. The goal: to identify areas where strategic partnerships and targeted investments can help strengthen the sector’s foundation and enhance its global competitiveness.

Both sides underscored the importance of collaboration—not just between their organizations but across stakeholders in the energy and steel value chains—to future-proof the industry and align with the country’s broader economic development goals.

Through initiatives like this, Meralco and PISI reaffirm their shared commitment to driving progress for the Philippine steel industry and ensuring it continues to play a vital role in nation-building.