Fueling Progress: How Rhea Navarro Powers Communities and Empowers Women
March 16, 2026
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In an industry long dominated by men and defined by complex technical demands, leadership often requires more than expertise. It calls for influence, resilience, and a clear hierarchy of values.
For Rhea Navarro, the regional chief operating officer (COO) of Aboitiz Power Transition Business Group–Visayas, leadership should not be defined by gender but strengthened by diverse perspectives.
As one of the people behind the reliable operation of power plants in the region and the first-ever female COO in the business group, Navarro works to keep communities running while inspiring women to lead.
Responsibility Behind the Demanding Work
Behind every light switched on and every business running smoothly is the demanding work of maintaining safe and efficient power plants.
“…running power plants is definitely demanding. I think that is even an understatement,” Navarro said.
For Navarro and her team, the responsibility extends far beyond operations.
Aboitiz Power recognizes the critical role it plays in society—supplying secure and reliable electricity that supports both economic activity and everyday life.
“We maintain our power plants to the highest standards to meet strict safety and reliability targets so we can consistently support the communities’ energy needs. In fact [Therma Visayas, Inc.] (TVI) has consistently exceeded global standards in operational performance. However, we value safety above all,” Navarro said.
She emphasized that safety remains their top priority—for their people, the communities they serve, and the environment.
Photo courtesy of Cebu Province / PIO
Paving the Way for Women to Lead
Navarro’s role also carries a milestone beyond operations and strategy.
“Being the first female COO in my business group, it’s both a privilege and a responsibility. I am privileged to help set a new standard in leadership—one that is not defined by gender but enriched by diversity of perspective,” Navarro said.
She expressed hope to help create an environment where women in leadership become the norm in their business, giving them equal opportunities to build the future of the company and its culture.
Life Beyond the Power Plants
Beyond her professional life, she is a devoted daughter to her parents, a loving sister to her siblings and a doting “tita” to her nephew and niece. She is also an artist, a traveler, and a dreamer.
Despite her demanding schedule, Navarro continues to stay connected to the people and passions that helped her become the best version of herself.
Conquering Challenges from Within
Reflecting on her journey, Navarro believes a woman can bring value and impact to any field she wants to pursue.
“Being a woman in this industry and being a woman in general, I’ve learned that we are no different than men. We equally bring a strong perspective to the table and we equally bring good value in whatever endeavor that we are in.”
She added that the biggest challenge that holds someone back from excelling often comes from within.
“Sometimes what holds us back, or even holds others back, is the unconscious bias we carry against ourselves. My advice is that only you can fuel your journey and drive yourself toward your goals. With determination, you have the power to make your dreams come true.”
Through her leadership in the energy sector and her advocacy for greater representation, Navarro not only helps power the region but also empowers women to pursue greater heights with confidence.
