MGEN taps executive to lead energy transition projects

MERALCO POWERGEN CORP. (MGEN) has appointed a senior executive to lead its energy transition initiatives as the company advances major generation projects and pursues plans to double its power capacity by the end of the decade.

In a statement on Monday, MGEN said Felino M. Bernardo will assume the role of head of strategic energy transition from July 1, 2026 until June 30, 2028.

In his new role, Mr. Bernardo will oversee the strategic development and management of MGEN’s power generation project pipeline, including project identification, feasibility studies, execution strategies, and growth initiatives.

His responsibilities will cover key projects such as Atimonan One Energy, the company’s expansion project in Toledo, and other strategic developments across its portfolio.

Mr. Bernardo will also lead nuclear energy development studies and serve as strategic adviser on liquefied natural gas (LNG) and indigenous gas initiatives.

The appointment forms part of a broader leadership transition at MGEN as the company positions itself for future growth.

Effective July 1, Arnel L. Santos will succeed Mr. Bernardo as president and chief executive officer of MGEN Thermal Energy, Inc., the company’s thermal power generation platform.

MGEN said Mr. Santos brings more than three decades of leadership experience across the energy, refining, petrochemicals, and industrial technology sectors.

Prior to his appointment, he served as senior vice-president and chief operating officer of MGEN Thermal.

The company also named Sam Manlosa as chief operating officer of MGEN Thermal beginning next month.

“This leadership transition positions us strongly for both today’s operational priorities and tomorrow’s growth opportunities,” MGEN President and Chief Executive Officer Emmanuel V. Rubio said.

The management changes come as MGEN pursues an ambitious expansion strategy.

The company currently has a combined net sellable capacity of 5,069.7 megawatts (MW) from conventional and renewable energy assets. It aims to increase this to 10,346 MW by 2030.

MGEN is the power generation arm of Manila Electric Co. (Meralco), the country’s largest electricity distribution utility. — Sheldeen Joy Talavera