In a landmark initiative to improve animal welfare in Metro Manila, Manila Electric Company (Meralco) has teamed up with the local government of Pateros and the Philippine Veterinary Medical Association (PVMA) to offer free spaying and neutering services for over 120 pets. The event, held on 15 December at the Pateros Elementary School, also provided essential anti-rabies vaccinations for both dogs and cats, addressing pressing concerns of pet overpopulation and the threat of rabies.
Pateros, the only municipality in Metro Manila without a dedicated veterinary office, welcomed the program as a critical intervention in its community. The free services were part of Meralco’s “Spay It Forward” campaign, a key part of the company’s broader commitment to promoting responsible pet ownership and improving animal welfare, especially in underserved areas.
Dr. Harris Constantino, PVMA president, praised the collaboration, emphasizing its alignment with the association’s Rabies Elimination initiative. “Meralco’s advocacy is a perfect complement to our efforts to eliminate rabies in the Philippines. This partnership allows us to pool our resources and make a greater impact on both animals and their owners,” said Constantino.
Biyaya Animal Care, a veterinary service provider, supported the event by offering its expertise in spaying, neutering, and vaccination procedures. Co-founder Rina Ortiz highlighted the importance of humane animal control, stating, “Humane control through spaying, neutering, vaccinations, and education helps create healthier, more compassionate communities for both animals and humans.”
The event also reflects Meralco’s long-standing commitment to animal welfare. Earlier in the year, the company hosted Trap, Neuter, Vaccinate, and Release (TNVR) activities at its Pasig City compound, reinforcing its dedication to pet care and responsible ownership.
Pateros mayor Miguel “Ike” Ponce expressed his gratitude, noting the positive impact on the local community. “We’re thankful to Meralco for helping us prioritize animal welfare through the Spay It Forward campaign. This partnership strengthens our efforts to build a compassionate and responsible community,” the mayor said.
Joe Zaldarriaga, Meralco vice president and head of corporate communications, emphasized the company’s ongoing commitment to the well-being of its communities. “Meralco’s advocacy for animal welfare is rooted in our sense of malasakit (compassion). By providing accessible spaying and neutering services, we’re helping to create safer, healthier environments for both people and animals,” Zaldarriaga said.
The success of the Pateros event marks just the beginning for Meralco, which plans to expand the “Spay It Forward” program to additional local government units (LGUs) and city veterinary offices across Metro Manila. With these collaborations, Meralco aims to continue making a lasting impact on the lives of pets and their owners, reinforcing its mission to enhance community well-being and animal welfare throughout the region.
