The Adopted Son Who Changed Iloilo: Honoring Roel Castro’s Leadership

By Louis ‘Barok‘ C. Biraogo — January 11, 2024

MORE than just an honorary title, Iloilo City’s ‘Adopted Son’ designation for Roel Zabala Castro serves as an inspiring beacon, illuminating the path for future leaders who dare to dream big and strive for a better tomorrow. The title, bestowed with gratitude and admiration, speaks volumes about how one person’s vision can redefine a city’s trajectory. It reflects the aspirations of a people who value innovation, resilience, and a profound commitment to collective well-being.

Beyond the Title: The Lasting Influence of an Adopted Son

Roel Castro’s leadership as President and CEO of MORE Electric and Power Corporation (MORE Power) has reshaped Iloilo City’s energy landscape. Under his stewardship, the once-fragile power infrastructure has been transformed into a robust, reliable system. He inherited a legacy of skepticism—a public weary of power outages, rising costs, and poor service. Yet, within a few years, Castro led a P1.7 billion modernization initiative that not only stabilized power distribution but also restored faith in the system.

Frequent blackouts became a thing of the past, replaced by a stable grid that powers homes, businesses, and aspirations. Electricity costs were lowered, a tangible relief for struggling families and small businesses. By investing in modern substations, automatic circuit reclosers, and enhanced capacity through a direct connection to the national grid, Castro didn’t just deliver electricity—he brought light, hope, and opportunity to Iloilo City.

Turning Trials into Triumphs: The Story of Roel Zabala Castro

Castro’s journey was anything but easy. The transition to MORE Power was marred by legal disputes, resistance from the previous utility operator, and an infrastructure in disrepair. Adding to the complexity was the COVID-19 pandemic, which struck mere weeks after MORE Power took over. These challenges could have paralyzed progress, yet Castro’s leadership turned adversity into a proving ground.

Starting from scratch, MORE Power rebuilt customer databases, established trust with the public, and tackled issues like electricity pilferage and outdated equipment. Castro’s insistence on transparency, coupled with his knack for clear communication, allowed him to navigate skepticism and foster a new relationship between the utility and its consumers.

Building Trust, Brick by Brick

Winning the trust of Iloilo City residents required more than infrastructure upgrades. Castro demonstrated a commitment to listening and responding to the community’s needs. Town hall meetings, social media engagement, and a customer-centric approach made the people of Iloilo feel heard and valued. Programs like refunds for on-time bill payments and active participation in local development projects further cemented his role as a leader who serves with integrity.

A Heart for the People: Championing Community and Cultural Vibrancy

Castro’s contributions extend far beyond power lines. As President of the Iloilo Economic Development Foundation and a director of the Iloilo Festivals Foundation, he has championed initiatives that celebrate the city’s rich heritage and drive economic growth. From promoting sustainability to revitalizing the Iloilo River and fostering a biking culture, his efforts underscore a commitment to a vibrant, inclusive community.

Through MORE Power, Castro has also been a force for education, environmental awareness, and social upliftment. These initiatives aren’t mere add-ons—they are central to his philosophy of leadership: a leader’s success is measured by the lives they improve.

A True Ilonggo: Embracing the Spirit of Iloilo

What makes Castro’s recognition as an “Adopted Son” particularly poignant is how seamlessly he embodies the spirit of Iloilo City. Known as the “City of Love,” Iloilo values resilience, warmth, and collaboration. Castro’s leadership reflects these values, turning challenges into opportunities and forging partnerships that benefit the collective good.

His role as Chairman of the Upsilon Sigma Phi Alumni Association further highlights his commitment to leadership and service. Upsilon Sigma Phi’s century-long legacy of producing visionary leaders resonates in Castro’s work—whether in the boardroom, the community, or the energy sector.

The Power of Gratitude

Mayor Jerry Treñas, in conferring this honor, captured the sentiment of a city transformed. “Roel Castro has truly become one of Iloilo City’s own,” the mayor declared, recognizing Castro’s contributions as not only professional achievements but acts of love for a community he now calls home.

For Iloilo City, this conferment is more than a symbolic gesture. It’s a reminder that transformative leadership is not about titles or accolades but about impact. It’s about the quiet, determined effort to light homes, fuel dreams, and leave a lasting legacy.

To call Roel Zabala Castro an ‘Adopted Son’ is to recognize not just his achievements but the light he brings to Iloilo’s journey toward progress. In him, the city sees its reflection: resilient, forward-thinking, and bound by love. Together, they forge a legacy that will inspire generations to come.