MGEN names new leaders to boost thermal power growth

Meralco PowerGen Corporation (MGEN) has appointed new executives to strengthen its thermal power operations as part of its strategy to deliver reliable energy and support sustainable growth.

Effective October 1, 2025, Felino “Lino” Bernardo will assume the role of President and CEO of MGEN Thermal.

Bernardo, who has extensive experience in the Philippine power sector, will lead efforts to meet rising electricity demand while ensuring operational excellence.

Joining him is Arnel Santos, who will serve as Senior Vice President and Chief Operations Officer of MGEN Thermal.

Santos brings more than 30 years of international experience in oil, chemicals, and energy, with expertise in operational transformation, digital innovation, and ESG integration.

The company also announced the retirement of Jaime “Jimmy” Azurin, President of Global Business Power Corporation, effective September 30, 2025.

Azurin, who has served the industry for over 20 years, will continue as an advisor until the end of 2025 to ensure a smooth leadership transition.

“This leadership transition marks an important milestone for MGEN’s thermal business as we strengthen our role in providing reliable energy today, while building the foundation for a sustainable future,” said Emmanuel V. Rubio, MGEN President and CEO.

“With Lino’s deep industry expertise and Arnel’s global track record in operational transformation, we are further equipping the business to meet the Philippines’ growing power needs responsibly and efficiently,” Rubio added.

MGEN’s thermal business forms part of a diversified portfolio that also includes renewable energy and natural gas assets.

The company holds stakes in Singapore’s PacificLight Power and operates an integrated LNG facility in Batangas.

MGEN currently maintains a combined net sellable capacity of 5,068 megawatts across its portfolio.