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With over 13 million stray cats and dogs estimated to be roaming the country, animal homelessness has become both a welfare and public health concern. The World Health Organization (WHO) has identified the Philippines as having one of the highest incidences of human rabies globally, many linked to bites from unvaccinated stray animals — highlighting the need for humane and sustainable solutions.

Stepping beyond its role as an electricity distributor, Manila Electric Company (Meralco) launched **CATropa**, an animal welfare initiative promoting safe coexistence between people and community animals. The program began after a growing number of cats were observed within Meralco’s Pasig headquarters, eventually evolving into a structured advocacy focused on responsible population management and workplace safety.

Central to the program is the Trap-Neuter-Vaccinate-Release (TNVR) approach, a globally recognized humane method that controls population growth while improving animal health and reducing rabies risks. Introduced in 2024 with support from Biyaya Animal Care, the initiative has expanded to ten sector offices, with nearly 300 community cats already spayed and neutered across Meralco properties.

“By supporting humane animal management programs, Meralco sets an example of good corporate governance, not just CSR,” said Rina Ortiz, CEO and Chief Strategist of Biyaya Animal Care, as she commended Meralco’s initiative that prioritizes long-term impact over short-term fixes.

To ensure safety within its facilities, Meralco also created designated animal-friendly zones and catios — secure outdoor spaces that keep community animals away from high-risk electrical equipment.

“At Meralco, we prioritize everyone’s safety—not only our customers and employees, but also community animals. Caring for them is part of our commitment to fostering a safe and responsible environment for all,” said Jerry B. Lao, Meralco's Head of Facilities, Safety, and Security Management.

Beyond company grounds, Meralco has partnered with local government units and animal welfare groups through its **Spay It Forward** campaign, providing free veterinary services to underserved communities. In 2024, the program reached Pateros, delivering spaying, neutering, and anti-rabies vaccinations to more than 120 animals.

“For Meralco, partnering with entities beyond its corporate walls helps address the overpopulation of stray animals in various communities, promoting better animal welfare and public health on a broader scale,” said Meralco Vice President and Head of Corporate Communications Joe R. Zaldarriaga, who is also an advocate and carer of two rescued cats.

The advocacy expanded to Laiya, San Juan, Batangas in November 2025, where 250 cats and dogs received free veterinary care through a collaboration with One Meralco Foundation (OMF), Landco Pacific Corporation, and Biyaya Animal Care.

“Through responsible animal population management and strong collaboration with Meralco CATropa and our partners, we are advancing long-term, sustainable solutions that safeguard animal welfare and uphold public safety, ensuring that Laiya remains a harmonious and welcoming destination for generations to come,” said Jhem Fauni-Azarcon, Project Director and Head of Community Development of Landco Pacific Corporation.

“We fully support this program because it helps reduce rabies cases. Community participation is essential if we are to achieve our goal of living in a healthy and safe environment,” said Provincial Agriculturist Rodrigo Bautista.

Since launching Mission PAW-ssible in 2024, CATropa has benefited more than 670 cats and dogs. “As the advocacy moves forward this year, the goal is to reach more communities through sustained TNVR efforts and stronger partnerships. When animal welfare is approached responsibly and consistently, it creates safer, healthier environments for both people and community animals,” said Michelle Caguioa, Meralco Advocacy Communications Management Head and CATropa Program Manager.