Manila Electric Company (Meralco) is broadening its workplace diversity and inclusion efforts through the expansion of its enterprise-wide Mbrace program, adding initiatives that support LGBTQIA+ employees and Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) as part of its broader sustainability agenda.

Originally launched in 2021 to promote women’s empowerment and representation, the Mbrace program has evolved to foster a more inclusive workplace by recognizing employees regardless of gender identity, sexual orientation, or ability.

As part of its Pride Month activities in June, Meralco rolled out several initiatives aimed at promoting allyship across the organization. These included the installation of rainbow crosswalks at its Ortigas headquarters and sector offices, employee engagement activities highlighting diverse voices, and participation from senior leaders to demonstrate support for inclusion.

The power distributor also expanded the number of all-gender restrooms at its headquarters, with similar facilities planned for other company locations. 

According to Meralco, the shared spaces are intended to provide employees with a workplace that is welcoming, safe, and accessible.

The company also partnered with Philippine Financial & Inter-industry Pride (PFIP) to hold the “Safe to Be Me” webinar, bringing together employees and leaders from Meralco and its subsidiaries to discuss safe spaces, allyship, and workplace inclusion.

“Being yourself at work should never be a privilege, but a norm. Safe spaces are built not only through policies, but through how we listen, how we speak, and how we treat one another with respect and empathy,” Meralco Chief Human Resources Officer Hans R. Montenegro said.

Meanwhile, Meralco Chief Information Security Officer Marilene P. Tayag said fostering an inclusive workplace requires everyday action from employees at all levels.

“Safe spaces is not just about having the right words in our employee handbook—it’s about the daily choices that we make, the conversations that we do or do not have, the assumptions we question, and the moments we choose to stand beside someone instead of staying silent,” she said.

Meralco said the Mbrace initiative forms part of its “Powering the Good Life” sustainability framework, which is anchored on the pillars of Power, Planet, People, and Prosperity. The company said integrating diversity and inclusion into its culture supports its goal of building a workplace where fairness, respect, and accessibility are embedded in daily operations.

What are your thoughts on the role of diversity and inclusion initiatives in strengthening organizational culture across the Philippine energy sector? Join the discussion below.

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