Pepsi Philippines switches on solar project in Bacolod

By Dolly Yasa

BACOLOD CITY — Pepsi-Cola Products Philippines Inc. (PCPPI), in partnership with EEI Power Corporation, inaugurated its solar rooftop project at the Pepsi Bacolod plant on Wednesday night, Dec. 3, marking a major step in the company’s national renewable energy transition.

The switch-on was held during a joint Christmas Tree Lighting and Solar Project Ceremony. Pepsi Philippines President Phyo Phyu Noe led the lighting of the solar-powered Christmas tree, which he described as a symbol of moving “from intention to action” in the company’s sustainability journey.

Pepsi is rolling out 8.34 megawatts of solar capacity across all 11 of its manufacturing plants nationwide. Once completed, this capacity will cover 14 percent of the company’s total power consumption. The Bacolod plant is the first site where the solar system is now fully operational.

“This is not a slogan. It is real engineering, real investment, real commitment,” Noe said.

He added that the shift to renewable energy is not for publicity or awards, but a necessary response to the challenges of climate change. “Responsibility is not a speech. Responsibility is a decision,” he said.

Noe also acknowledged the dedication of Pepsi employees, noting that meaningful change is made “quietly, consistently, through work and discipline.”

“What you see tonight is proof that Pepsi Philippines is willing to do the work,” he said.

EEI Power Corporation Assistant Vice President and Business Unit Head for Solar, Andrew Zapanta Jr., praised Pepsi’s leadership in sustainability, calling the Bacolod solar project “a strong demonstration of corporate responsibility and a commitment to a cleaner future.”

Zapanta explained that the installation will reduce dependence on conventional energy sources, lower electricity costs, and improve operational efficiency—strengthening Pepsi’s competitive edge.

He added that the environmental benefits are equally important, with the system expected to reduce carbon emissions, lessen reliance on fossil fuels, and improve air quality for nearby communities.

“Every kilowatt-hour generated from the sun is a step toward mitigating climate change and preserving our planet for future generations,” he said.

Zapanta noted that the solar project aligns with Pepsi’s broader mission to deliver stakeholder value while protecting the environment and supporting local communities.

By investing in renewable energy, he said, Pepsi is “meeting global standards and setting an example for others to follow.”

He also reaffirmed EEI Power’s support for Pepsi’s long-term sustainability roadmap, which includes additional renewable energy projects and ongoing efforts to improve energy efficiency.

“Together, we can build a future where business growth and environmental stewardship go hand in hand,” Zapanta said.

The event concluded with a message of optimism from both companies, affirming their shared commitment to a greener and more sustainable Philippines.