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In an industry long dominated by men, more women are stepping up, taking charge, and redefining leadership—and at Manila Electric Company (Meralco), that shift is becoming more visible than ever.

As the world marked International Women’s Month, the country’s largest power distributor highlighted the growing role of women in shaping the future of the energy sector—an industry where, according to the International Energy Agency (IEA), women still make up only about 20% of the global workforce.

At Meralco, however, efforts to change that narrative are gaining ground.

From Frontliner to Leader

One of the standout stories is that of Joy P. Mendoza, who started as a branch representative and is now the Vice President and Head of Home and MicroBiz – Central Business Area.

Her journey began over two decades ago at a business center in Valenzuela, where she worked directly with customers—handling applications and resolving concerns. Over time, those experiences shaped her leadership style and strengthened her connection with the people she serves.

“In my 24 years here, serving the customers, seeing them smiling and saying a simple ‘thank you’ gives me a certain fulfillment,” she said, adding that she had many wonderful engagements with various kinds of customers.

For Joy, leadership is not confined within office walls but is built through challenges and responsibility.

“Leadership does not require perfect conditions, and leadership does not only stay within the four corners of your work office. It can also be at home, but it grows in the middle of any challenges, it grows from one's responsibilities, it grows from any adversities,” she added.

She also encourages aspiring women leaders to lift others as they rise.

“Don’t just aim to succeed, but always strive to advocate, to uplift, and to create space for others and produce new leaders that could go with you on your side, not in front of you, not on your back, but they should be at your side, both on your right and on your left.”

Breaking Barriers on the Ground

Meanwhile, Janice Enriquez represents another side of women empowerment—one that literally climbs heights.

She began her career in 2014 as part of Meralco’s first batch of professional female linecrew and has since risen to become the Administrative Head of the Dasmariñas sector.

Despite the physically demanding nature of her work, Janice pushed forward with determination.

“Kung kaya ng mga lalaki, kaya rin namin mga babae,” she said, recalling her early days in the field.

Her most memorable experience came during a powerful typhoon that hit Cavite, where she and her team worked tirelessly to restore electricity in affected communities.

“Kapag bumabagyo, sa mga liblib na lugar na di na madaanan, bitbit namin yung mga poste at lahat ng gamit para lang maibalik yung ilaw ng mga residente. Iba yung sense of fulfillment na naramdaman ko noon kasi isa ako sa nagbalik ng liwanag sa kanilang mga tahanan,” she shared.

Janice credits Meralco for providing strong support not just for her career, but also for her family.

“Malaki ang pasasalamat ko sa Meralco kasi hindi nila kami pinapabayaan, pati ang pamilya ko. Malaki ang utang na loob ko sa kumpanyang ito,” she said.

She also offered a message of resilience to other women.

“Hindi lahat ng magagaling ay umaangat, pero lahat ng matatag ay nakaka-survive.”

Building a More Inclusive Future

Through programs like #Mbrace and the “Yes You Can!” mentoring initiative, Meralco continues to invest in developing more women leaders across its organization. The company is aiming to increase female representation in its workforce to 40% by 2030.

Beyond numbers, these efforts reflect a deeper commitment—to create a workplace where women are not just included, but empowered to lead and thrive.

Stories like Joy’s and Janice’s show that with the right support and opportunities, women are not only breaking barriers—they’re raising the bar for what leadership looks like in the energy sector.