The newly illuminated La Paz Football Ground in Iloilo City – the first internationally compliant, plaza-based football lighting system in Western Visayas.
Pasig City, Philippines — 13 November 2025 — Meralco PowerGen Corporation (MGEN), through its thermal subsidiary Panay Energy Development Corporation (PEDC), in collaboration with the Iloilo City Government and with the support of One Meralco Foundation (OMF), officially illuminated the La Paz Football Ground.
The football field lighting ceremony coincided with the Christmas lighting of Iloilo City, making the event a festive celebration for the community. This marks the completion of the first internationally compliant football lighting system in Western Visayas for a plaza-based facility.
The ₱17.3 million initiative equips the La Paz Plaza Football Ground with professional-grade lighting that allows for evening play, events, and training sessions. The upgraded field strengthens Iloilo’s growing reputation as a center for community sports and recreation.
“It is a privilege for us to continue serving this community, not only through energy, but through initiatives that uplift lives and empower people. At MGEN, we believe that our role goes beyond generating power. It is about empowering people, strengthening communities, and lighting the path towards a better future,” said MGEN President and CEO Emmanuel V. Rubio.
The Iloilo City Government, led by Mayor Raisa Trenas, will manage the technical operations and maintenance of the facility. The project builds on the city’s continuing efforts to enhance sports infrastructure and strengthen grassroots development through the Iloilo City Sports Academy (ICSA) and the Sports Kickstarter Program, which provide free training and opportunities for children and youth.
Mayor Trenas emphasized how the lighting project complements Iloilo City’s broader sports agenda, saying, “when we see families here spending their afternoons practicing and their school activities under the bright lights and their sports tournaments, we are reminded that development is not just about structures or facilities. It’s about people. It’s about giving our spaces to dream and to grow. Sports bring families together. They foster discipline, teamwork, and pride—the same values that will drive a city forward. With this lighting project, our football ground will soon come alive, even at night, opening more opportunities for local tournaments, training, and sports businesses. This is how we turn our open spaces into centers of life and community.”
Iloilo’s enduring passion for football now finds new energy in this newly illuminated field. Beyond upgrading infrastructure, the project brings lasting social value by serving as a space that will continue to inspire and support the city’s youth. With extended playing hours and improved visibility, young Ilonggo athletes can now train, compete, and build their skills well into the evening. This project nurtures the next generation of local football talent and reinforces Iloilo’s status as a proud home of grassroots sports development.
PEDC has been a steadfast supporter of the Christmas Decorations at La Paz Plaza since it began its operations in Iloilo City. From the start, the company’s involvement has been guided by its desire to join celebrate the holiday season together with the Iloilo City community. This support reflects PEDC’s commitment to fostering community spirit and togetherness through the annual holiday display at the well-loved public space in the city.
With the completion of the La Paz Football Ground Lighting Project, MGEN – through PEDC – continues to demonstrate its commitment to advancing sustainability This commitment extends to programs that empower communities and promote health, wellness, and inclusive growth. By lighting spaces that bring people together, MGEN continues to power a better tomorrow for every community it serves.
Young Ilonggo athletes training at the football ground.
Officials from Panay Energy Development Corporation, One Meralco Foundation, and the Iloilo City Government at the ceremonial lighting of the La Paz Football Ground. Seen on the photo are (Back L-R): City Councilor Mandrie Malabor; PEDC Site Head Antonio J. Cabalhug, Jr.; Iloilo City Mayor Hon. Raisa S. Treñas; OMF President Jeffrey O. Tarayao; Iloilo City Football Club Coach Noche Sison; and Athletes of the Iloilo City Football Club on the front.