This Women’s History Month, we turn our gaze to Alsons Power, where the conventional image of a male-dominated industry is being rewritten, stroke by vibrant stroke, by the remarkable women who are redefining its very essence.
In the sprawling landscape of the energy sector, a narrative of transformation is unfolding, powered not by fossil fuels alone, but by the unwavering grit and brilliance of women. And at the heart of this revolution are three extraordinary individuals from the Sarangani Energy Corporation (SEC) power plant in Maasim, Sarangani: Fritz Asuero, Kimberly Gaturian, and Charmaine Joyce Maningo – engineers, leaders, and beacons of inspiration.
They are not merely breaking stereotypes; they are forging a future where competence and passion reign supreme.
For too long, the energy sector has echoed with the footsteps of men, but within the walls of Alsons Power, a symphony of change is resonating. These women are not just participants; they are architects of progress, their contributions illuminating the path toward a more inclusive and innovative future.
Breaking barriers, embracing innovation, and empowering future generations — Alsons Power’s female Power Buddies Fritz Asuero, Kimberly Gaturian, and Charmaine Joyce Maningo are reshaping the role of women in the energy sector.
Alsons Power: Defying gravity, igniting innovation
Kimberly Gaturian, a Distributed Control System (DCS) Engineer, embodies the spirit of resilience. Navigating a field traditionally perceived as masculine, Kimberly’s mantra is one of self-mastery: “I don’t have to compete with anyone in this male-dominated field; I just have to compete with myself and be the best version of me.” Her technical prowess, evident in the groundbreaking wall seal blower changeover process, has not only enhanced plant safety but also influenced the very blueprint of SEC Unit 2.
Kimberly’s work demonstrates that innovation thrives when diverse perspectives are embraced.
Fritz Asuero, the sentinel of Quality Assurance and Quality Control (QAQC), confronts the subtle biases that often cloud perceptions. Undeterred by assumptions, she transforms doubt into a catalyst for excellence. “It’s not about being a man or a woman. It’s about passion and hard work,” she asserts.
Her dedication to implementing the Energy Management System underscores her commitment to operational efficiency and sustainable practices, proving that intellectual rigor knows no gender.
Charmaine Joyce Maningo, a proud Maguindanaon, weaves a tapestry of engineering and legal expertise, a rare and potent combination. Her journey from Project Control Engineer to Regulatory Compliance Supervisor is a testament to her adaptability and ambition. “Alsons Power has a strong work culture that values expertise and fosters an inclusive space for women,” she shares.
“Your success in the company is not defined by gender but by competence and determination,” she adds. Charmaine’s story is a powerful reminder that diverse backgrounds enrich the industry, bringing unique and invaluable perspectives.
Cultivating a culture of empowerment
The 210 MW SEC plant in Maasim, Sarangani provides power to around four million people residing within the area
Alsons Power’s commitment extends beyond mere employment; it fosters an environment where women are empowered to lead, innovate, and excel. A culture of equal opportunity and mentorship ensures that talent, not gender, dictates success.
“The plant may still be male-dominated, but the women here are among the best in their fields because we are valued, respected, and given equal opportunities to excel,” Fritz affirms.
Kimberly highlights the unique strengths women bring to the table.
“We may not be the ones physically hauling motors from the field to the workshop, but we have been trusted to develop an effective maintenance plan to prevent the need for removal in the first place. We can design automated controls to drive valves, reducing the need for manual labor,” she explains.
This strategic approach, coupled with attention to detail, empathy, and multi-tasking, allows women to contribute significantly to the industry’s advancement.
Powering a future of inclusion
Farmers Rebeccah Saluntay, Karen Galante, and Edilyn Tinagak from Sitio Datal Basak in Maasim proudly carry freshly harvested coffee cherries during the Coffee Harvest Festival in Maasim, Sarangani.
As the energy sector navigates the complexities of the 21st century, the contributions of women become increasingly indispensable.
Alsons Power recognizes this, and are in fact celebrating their achievements and fostering a culture rooted in care, inclusion, and equal opportunity – embodying their brand promise: “We Power with Care.”
This Women’s History Month, we celebrate the remarkable women of Alsons Power, whose resilience and innovation are illuminating the path toward a more inclusive and sustainable energy future. Their stories are a testament to the power of diversity and the unwavering spirit of those who dare to redefine the boundaries of possibility.
At Alsons Power, the future isn’t just powered by energy; it’s powered by people – by women who illuminate the world with their brilliance and unwavering determination.
