EmPOWERed Careers

As one of the Philippines’ largest producers and distributors of electric power, Aboitiz Power Corporation (AboitizPower) lives out its purpose of Transforming Energy for a Better World through its core values: integrity, teamwork, innovation, responsibility, and service excellence.

At the heart of this mission are the people who embody these values, including former Aboitiz scholars who have since joined the company. Among them are Jey De Los Reyes, Jarren De Guzman, Jon Kristoffer Tagalog, and Vince Jane “Vinchay” Olaer—once promising students, now committed professionals shaping the future of energy.

Even during their student years, these scholars recognized the Aboitiz scholarship not only as financial support but as a deeper source of motivation and accountability.

“The scholarship lifted a huge burden off my shoulders and allowed me to focus on my studies without constantly worrying about expenses. But beyond that, it also gave me a strong sense of purpose and accountability,” recalled De Los Reyes.

“Knowing I was entrusted with such support motivated me to stay focused and do my best—not just for myself, but to be worthy of the opportunity. It shaped how I approached both my education and my future career—with gratitude, determination, and a mindset to give back.”

Today, De Los Reyes works as Risk and Organizational Performance Manager at Visayan Electric, the country’s second-largest private distribution utility and a subsidiary of AboitizPower.

“That sense of responsibility has been incredibly valuable. Knowing the company supported me so comprehensively motivates me to give my best, whether in school or at work,” he said. “That drive continues to guide how I take ownership of my tasks and aim to exceed expectations.”

Since joining Visayan Electric, De Los Reyes credits the company’s culture and values—especially through his time in the engineering corps—for broadening his expertise and preparing him to face challenges and seize new opportunities.

Like De Los Reyes, De Guzman also understood the weight of responsibility that came with being a scholar.

“The biggest impact that the scholarship had on me was the value of responsibility. Having the opportunity to be an Aboitiz Scholar wasn’t just financial support; it was a commitment. It taught me that I wasn’t only accountable to myself, but also to the people who believed in my potential,” he shared.

That sense of purpose inspired De Guzman to stay focused and strive for excellence. He set intentional goals, always mindful that his actions reflect not just his personal values but also those of the program that supported him.

After graduating, he aspired to work at AboitizPower, drawn by the company’s strong focus on skill development and career growth.

Now, De Guzman works as a Business Process and Innovation Supervisor at AP Renewables Inc., AboitizPower’s geothermal energy unit with sites in Albay, Laguna, and Batangas. A former cadet engineer, he has since gained recognition in various innovation competitions.

“Looking ahead, the values continue to guide my career choices and fuel my drive to contribute meaningfully, especially in roles where I can create an impact beyond myself,” he observed.

Down south, fellow Aboitiz scholars-turned-colleagues Tagalog and Olaer also reflected on how the scholarship shaped their values and continues to influence their work.

“As the eldest of nine siblings, I was always driven to graduate and find work to help my family,” shared Tagalog. “Being an Aboitiz Scholar allowed me to ease my parents’ financial burden, even while I was still studying.”

The scholarship also pushed him to excel beyond academics.

“Carrying the Aboitiz name inspired me to aim higher. I wanted people to see that Aboitiz Scholars are achievers. I became a student leader and tutored younger students in difficult subjects—all for free.”

Now a Quality Assurance and Quality Control Technician at Therma South, Tagalog upholds a strong sense of integrity and precision.

“As a scholar, I was entrusted with an opportunity that changed my life, and I carried that sense of accountability with me when I joined the company,” he expressed. “I approach every task, big or small, with the mindset that my work reflects not only on me but on the entire team and organization.”

Olaer, Tagalog’s colleague at Therma South, shared a similar journey—one that came full circle. 

“The Aboitiz scholarship covered nearly all my academic expenses, which meant I didn’t need to ask my parents for help. It also gave me career-building opportunities, like an on-the-job training stint at Therma South during my third year in college.” she shared.

That experience cemented her decision to pursue a career in the power sector. Five years later, she now works as an Electrical Specialist at the same facility.

“Values such as integrity and teamwork are essential to my role. Integrity ensures that I follow the highest standards of safety and quality, especially when dealing with critical equipment,” she explained. “Teamwork is equally important because maintenance work often involves collaboration with others to troubleshoot and resolve issues to keep the plant running and the lights on.”

“These values and skills, nurtured during my time as an Aboitiz Scholar and at present, continue to support my contributions to the company’s success, allowing me to excel in my role and help ensure safe and reliable operations.”

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Editor’s Note: This article was provided by Aboitiz Power Corporation.