SOMETIMES — though not often enough — we get the chance to talk about people who truly matter, individuals who have made a meaningful impact on our lives. And yes, we mean a positive impact.
One such person is Roel Z. Castro, the president and chief executive officer of MORE Electric and Power Corporation (MORE Power). Over the last five years, under his leadership, the lives of Ilonggos have significantly improved, along with the economic development of “I Am Iloilo City.”
Indeed, we’re talking about that Roel Z. Castro — he of the ever-present, lovely, and infectious smile that seems to say: “Try not to get worried. Try not to turn to problems that upset you. Everything’s alright.”
We’ve written much about MORE Power and their everyman, “Nong Moroy.” It’s about time we focused on the captain of the ship — the man steering Iloilo City’s sole power distribution utility boldly into the 21st century.
So, who is this man behind that reassuring smile?
Let’s take a closer look at Roel Z. Castro — also known as Sir Roel — who currently serves not only as president and CEO of MORE Power but also of Negros Electric and Power Corporation (Negros Power) and Primelectric Holdings, which recently acquired Bohol Light Company Inc.
An alumnus of the University of the Philippines – Los Baños with a degree in Agricultural Business, Sir Roel furthered his education with a Master’s in Management from the Asian Institute of Management. He also completed executive programs at the University of Asia and the Pacific and the prestigious IESE Business School of the University of Navarra in Spain. Clearly, his academic credentials reflect both depth and breadth — a true renaissance man.
With more than two decades in the power sector, Sir Roel has held leadership roles across various aspects of the industry, including generation and transmission in the Philippines and the US, and even a rail transport project. He led the transition team at the National Grid Corporation of the Philippines (NGCP) during the privatization of the national transmission system. After NGCP, he moved into power generation with Palm Concepcion Power Corporation, and now heads distribution with MORE Power.
His track record speaks for itself. But if we need further proof of his contributions to “I Am Iloilo City,” let these accolades speak:
* Sir Roel was recently elected president of the Iloilo Economic Development Foundation, Inc. (ILED) for the 2024 – 2026 term — affirming his commitment to regional economic growth.
* He also sits on the boards of the Iloilo Festivals Foundation, Inc. and the UP Visayas Foundation, Inc., showing his dedication to culture, community, and education.
* Through Executive Order No. 162, Iloilo City’s Mayor Jerry P. Treñas declared him an “Adopted Son of Iloilo City” for his “exceptional leadership and commitment to the development of Iloilo City.”
In a heartfelt birthday message to Sir Roel last week, Mayor Treñas put into words what many Ilonggos feel for the man who helped bring Iloilo City out of the dark:
“Roel is more than a leader of our distribution utility — he is a true partner in Iloilo City’s progress. Since 2019, when I returned as Mayor, MORE Power has stood by us, ensuring reliable electricity, addressing rampant illegal connections, and creating jobs for many Ilonggos.
“During the pandemic, his generosity was evident as MORE Power provided vaccines, PPEs, and testing kits, helping us protect our people. Under his leadership, Iloilo City experienced the lowest electricity rates in 2021, and he continues to work toward securing competitive rates today.
“Roel, may you continue to lead with the same passion and generosity, not just in Iloilo City but also in the other cities and provinces where your company operates. Your dedication is making a difference in many communities.”
And lastly, on this note of celebration: today marks the 44th anniversary of Panay News — the most widely circulated and most read regional newspaper, known for its Best Editorial Page, Best in Business & Economic Reporting, and Best Reporting on Migration Issues.
Happy birthday, Panay News!/PN
