A walk-through museum

Situated against the backdrop of a rainforest and Antipolo’s beautiful mountains, MMLDC takes advantage of the bounty of nature to create an ambiance conducive to relaxation and learning, a far cry from the usual hotels or resorts.

MMLDC is, literally, “a campus in the hills and classrooms that extend into the forests.” It was established in 1999 initially to serve as the training site for the employees and officers of Manila Electric Company (Meralco).

“ It was envisioned to be-come a ‘corporate university’ dedicated to pro-fessionalism. Shortly after it opened though, other companies became interested to use the venue for their own training needs, so we are now open to them,” said Agnes Fidelino, MMLDC’s managing director.

With nine hectares of luscious greenery, the former fruit farm now holds various facilities to provide utmost service and unique exprience not only for Meralco’s employees but to whoever is interested.

“ MMLDC is a world-class training facility, but at the same time, it can also become a ‘walk-through museum,’” said Agnes. “When people enter the vicinity, they experience a new setting. And they appreciate the design elements of the center, thus making learning more conducive.”

At the highest point of the MMLDC site is the Residence Hall, which can accommodate up to 180 persons. With hotel-like amenities, the hall provides a first-rate refuge after the day’s activities. On the other hand, the Academic Hall is where the “mind game” happens. It’s a three-level building with 14 classrooms equipped with the latest audio-visual equipment for conferences, training lectures and conventions.
For outdoor and bonding activities, pitch-and-putt amenities have been set up for golfing aficionados and a paintball area for the adventurous. Since fun and adventure are among the list of vacation-goers or training participants, outdoor activities are always included in MMLDC’s itinerary. An integrated course to provide physical and mental challenges to participants is also part of the experience, requiring them to go through an exciting “Adventure Learning Course” to complete their exciting experience: The Discovery Trail, Low Ropes Course and the High Ropes Course.

An ‘open’ aviary

MMLDC also boasts of an aviary that looks more like a well-landscaped garden. Birds roam freely, from ducks and geese to storks and swans, to the more exotic varieties in large cages. Little man-made lagoons, swings and gazebos create pretty spots and a more serene environment.

More than being a training facility and a secret sanctuary, MMLDC is a venue for building responsible citizens. Among its programs is to give guests an ecotour, not only to educate them about nature, but also to inculcate in them a sense of responsibility towards it.

Aside from providing a center for fun and learning, Meralco also has the Meralco Sibol School Program within the Gawad Kalinga communities. It works with the renowned charity in order to provide quality pre-school education in depressed communities. For over two years now, Meralco’s employees have been volunteering to help build the school in various GK sites. Meralco also provides free training for teachers and community members.

Although primarily a training and convention center, the MMLDC is an ideal venue for various events like weddings, birthdays and other social events. It also welcomes walk-in guests. For information, please log on to www.mmldc.org or call 632-8111 or email mmldc.marketing@meralco.com.ph.