MANILA, (PIA) — Former Court of Appeals Justice Stephen C. Cruz was sworn in as Chairman of the Philippine Postal Corporation (PHLPost) on August 27, 2024, during a ceremony held at Malacañang Palace, officiated by Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin.
Chairman Cruz outlined an ambitious agenda focused on the restoration and rehabilitation of the historic Manila Central Post Office, which was severely damaged by fire.
He will collaborate with the Inter-Agency Task Force for the MCPO rehabilitation, led by the Department of Tourism, to determine the “best use” for the building, including plans for a Postal Museum and related tourism developments in line with the Marcos Administration’s initiatives.
In addition to the restoration efforts, Cruz is committed to digitalizing the Postal Bank, which was previously transferred to Landbank by the prior administration. He aims to facilitate the return of the Postal Bank as a digital service, enhancing the postal system’s efficiency.
Cruz emphasized the importance of fostering a harmonious working relationship with Postmaster General and CEO Luis D. Carlos, particularly in the realm of digital transformation within the postal service.
He also plans to advocate for the reinstatement of the Postal ID as a functional card, responding to the demand from thousands of Filipinos both locally and abroad who wish to acquire or renew their Postal Identity Cards.
A graduate of Ateneo Law School, Cruz has a long history in public service and legal practice. He began his career as a legal officer in the office of former President Ferdinand Marcos Sr. in 1977, shortly after passing the bar.
He served as Presiding Judge of the Lucena Regional Trial Court Branch 60 from 2000 to 2006 before his appointment to the Court of Appeals in 2006, where he served until 2020.
With over 37 years of legal experience, Cruz also teaches law at various institutions, including the University of the East College of Law and San Carlos University in Cebu. He succeeds Mike Planas, who held the position for just three months.
Cruz’s leadership marks a new chapter for PHLPost, promising revitalization and modernization in the face of evolving challenges in the postal sector. (JEG/PIA-NCR)
