Privatization was a turning point for Maynilad.
The entry of Manuel V. Pangilinan-backed Metro Pacific Investments and the Consunji family’s DMCI Holdings transformed the once-troubled provider into the largest water concessionaire in Southeast Asia by population, reliably serving millions of Filipino homes and businesses.
Estrellado, who turns 60 years old later this month, was present for much of Maynilad’s turnaround.
He became a director in 2007 and in 2016, he was appointed COO, succeeding Herbert Consunji.
Despite its business success, the firm has not been immune to shifting political winds.
The Manila water concessionaires were targeted by the Duterte administration in 2019.
Maynilad retained its ownership structure under the steady leadership of CEO Ramoncito Fernandez and Estrellado, while Manila Water underwent a transition as the Zobel family turned over control to fellow tycoon Enrique Razon Jr.
Estrellado climbed the corporate ladder despite the threat of discrimination that many from his generation faced in the workplace.
In 2018, he penned a widely praised opinion piece in the Philippine Daily Inquirer, coming out as a proud gay executive.
Estrellado said he chose to be visible, hoping to inspire fellow professionals navigating similar paths, and to encourage the next generation to pursue their dreams.
Before joining Maynilad, Estrellado held key roles as CFO of ABS-CBN and Metro Pacific Investments.
He earned his MBA from Harvard Business School in 1991 and holds a Business Management degree, Honors Program, from Ateneo de Manila University.
—With Corrie S. Narisma
Miguel R. Camus has been a reporter covering various domestic business topics since 2009.
