A group of Batangas business and civic leaders has thrown its support behind the proposed joint venture between Manila Electric Company (Meralco) and Batangas II Electric Cooperative (BATELEC II), citing the need to address frequent power problems that disrupt local businesses and growth.
The Batangas Forum for Good Governance and Development Association Inc. formalized its full endorsement in a resolution dated Oct. 29, 2025, signed by its chairman, president, vice president and board of trustees.
The group, composed of professionals and Batangas residents, has been flagging power quality and reliability issues in areas served by BATELEC II.
Citing Meralco’s operational and financial track record, the Batangas forum believes the distribution utility can introduce necessary investments, systems and operational discipline to provide more dependable service to communities and local enterprises. Meralco has already achieved success in Batangas City, Sto. Tomas City and San Pascual.
The group said a partnership between electric cooperatives like BATELEC II and the private sector offers concrete solutions for infrastructure modernization, strengthening the electricity distribution system, and responding to growing consumer power demand.
BATELEC II distributes electricity in the cities of Lipa and Tanauan and 15 municipalities including Alitagtag, Balete, Cuenca, Laurel, Lobo, Malvar, Mataas na Kahoy, Mabini, Padre Garcia, Rosario, San Jose, San Juan, Talisay, Taysan and Tingloy.
The Batangas forum said the joint venture is a vital step toward achieving more reliable and efficient electricity service. The group also called on BATELEC II to protect employee welfare, promote professional development and maintain fair employment opportunities throughout the process.
They also urged the business sector, local government and the communities to support the initiative, ensuring transparent communication, close coordination and regular updates to member-consumers regarding the joint venture proposal.
