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The Philippines is making bold strides in the digital infrastructure space, and the latest proof of that is the successful energization of a 115-kV switching station by Manuel V. Pangilinan-led Manila Electric Company (Meralco). This new facility, built for ST Telemedia Global Data Centres Philippines (STT GDC), will provide reliable and redundant power to its hyperscale data center in Fairview, Quezon City.

A Game-Changing Partnership

STT GDC Philippines is a powerhouse in the data center industry, backed by Globe Telecom, Ayala Corporation, and Singapore-based STT GDC. With operations spanning Metro Manila, Cavite, and Davao, the company is at the forefront of digital infrastructure in the country.

This collaboration between Meralco and STT GDC led to the construction of a state-of-the-art, in-building switching station within STT GDC’s Polaris Data Center—the first of its kind in Meralco’s franchise area. Unlike traditional substations, this innovative setup is housed inside the data center itself, ensuring a stable, efficient, and resilient power supply.

Powering the Future of the Digital Philippines

For a hyperscale data center, power reliability is non-negotiable. That’s why this project is such a significant milestone. Harmonic System Inc. and Meralco subsidiary MIESCOR teamed up to construct the 115-kV sub-transmission lines, delivering robust and redundant power. Meanwhile, Meralco’s energy services arm, MSERV, supplied and installed key electrical equipment, including high-voltage gas-insulated switchgears, oil-immersed transformers, and medium-voltage dry-type transformers

The goal? Zero downtime. Maximum efficiency. Uninterrupted operations.

A Statement to the Global Community

Beyond powering a single facility, this partnership is making waves on a larger scale. STT GDC Philippines President and CEO Carlo E. Malana emphasized how this project cements the country’s position as a serious player in the global digital infrastructure industry.

“This is a statement to the international community that the Philippines can build a world-class infrastructure that shows that we are more than ready to support the enabling of a digital Philippines.”

Meralco, for its part, is all-in on supporting the hyperscale industry. Meralco EVP and COO Ronnie L. Aperocho reinforced their commitment to working closely with data center operators to meet their specific power needs.

“We are fully committed to providing reliable power and energizing critical infrastructure that will support the growth and development of the hyperscale industry in the country.”

More Than Just Power—A Boost for Economic Growth

This move aligns perfectly with the Philippine government’s push for energy security and infrastructure development under its socio-economic agenda. With data centers becoming a backbone of the digital economy, investments like these don’t just power servers—they power businesses, innovations, and economic progress.

With Meralco’s continued support and strong partnerships like this one, the Philippines is proving that it’s ready to take on the future—one hyperscale project at a time.