Former Court of Appeals Justice Stephen C. Cruz has officially assumed the role of chairman of the Philippine Postal Corporation (PHLPost), vowing to spearhead the restoration of the historic Manila Central Post Office (MCPO) and initiate efforts for a revitalized postal banking system.
Cruz took his oath of office before Executive Secretary and former Chief Justice Lucas Bersamin on August 27 at Malacañang Palace. With this new appointment, Cruz brings decades of legal experience and a strong commitment to modernizing the postal service in the country.
Restoration of Manila Central Post Office
Among his top priorities as chairman is the rehabilitation of the fire-damaged Manila Central Post Office building.
Cruz will collaborate with the Inter-Agency Task Force, led by the Department of Tourism, to determine the “best use” of the building and develop it into a prominent cultural and tourist site.
“The goal is not just to restore the post office, but to ensure it remains an iconic part of our national heritage,” Cruz stated.
Additionally, Cruz revealed plans for the establishment of a Postal Museum to commemorate the historical significance of the postal service in the Philippines, as well as other projects aligned with the Marcos administration’s tourism agenda.
Revitalization of Postal Bank
Cruz also announced his intentions to push for the return and digitalization of the postal bank.
The previous administration had transferred the Postal Bank, now known as OF Bank, to the Land Bank of the Philippines.
Cruz aims to bring the bank back under PHLPost’s umbrella and modernize its operations.
In his role, Cruz envisions a “harmonious working relationship” with Postmaster General and CEO Luis D. Carlos, particularly in advancing the digital transformation of postal services across the country.
Postal ID Advocacy
Amid widespread demand, Cruz also plans to prioritize the reinstatement of the Postal Identity Card (Postal ID) as a valid and functional ID.
“Thousands of Filipinos, both in the country and abroad, have been clamoring for the return of the Postal ID,” Cruz emphasized.
Cruz, a seasoned legal professional, brings over 37 years of experience to the position. He is a graduate of Ateneo Law School (Class of 1976) and worked as a legal officer under the Marcos Sr. administration in 1977. His judicial career includes serving as a presiding judge in Lucena and as an appellate court justice from 2006 until his retirement in 2020.
Apart from his legal career, Cruz teaches at multiple law schools, including the University of the East College of Law, Enverga University College of Law, and San Carlos University in Cebu.
Cruz replaces Mike Planas, who served a brief three-month stint as chairman of PHLPost.
