For Marichu K. Cruz, Certified Human Resource Professional (CHRP), leadership is not confined within the walls of a single company. While her day job involves overseeing HR operations at Cosmetique Asia Corporation, her greater impact radiates far beyond — through mentorship, community-building, and a movement to uplift HR professionals across Bulacan.
“One of the greatest joys of my career has been mentoring teammates like Judith Almine, Iris Ciriago and other HR’s team members. Mentorship, to me, is about more than teaching—it’s about instilling confidence, shaping values, and nurturing the next generation of leaders,” Cruz told Financial Adviser PH.
A Passion for People—and the Profession
Mentorship is not an obligation for Cruz—it’s a calling. Throughout her career, she’s made it a point to guide others, helping them navigate the complexities of HR while staying anchored in compassion and excellence.
But her commitment didn’t stop within the company. Recognizing the need for greater support among HR practitioners in the province, Cruz took a bold step: she founded Bulacan HR, a thriving community that now connects hundreds of professionals across diverse industries.
“I wanted to build a space where HR leaders could learn, grow, and support each other,” she said. “Bulacan HR has become that platform—a space where we collaborate, share best practices, and uplift one another.”
Volunteering with Purpose
Cruz is also an active member and volunteer of the People Management Association of the Philippines (PMAP), one of the country’s premier HR organizations. Through PMAP, she extends her reach, advocating for ethical HR practices, people development, and strategic leadership.
She sees volunteering not as extra work, but as an essential part of her mission to give back to the profession that gave her purpose.
“It’s about sharing what I’ve learned—and learning from others, too,” Cruz emphasized.
A Voice for Industry Collaboration
Her advocacy work also extends to the Industrial Tripartite Council (ITC) – DOLE Bulacan, where she has served on the board committee for the manufacturing sector for the past three years. In this role, she works with government and private sector leaders to develop best practices in labor relations, compliance, and employee welfare.
“This role has allowed me to bring HR perspectives into policy discussions and shape initiatives that protect both employees and employers,” Cruz shared. “It’s fulfilling to know that we’re creating ripple effects that benefit entire organizations and communities.”
Paying It Forward—Together
Cruz believes that building a strong HR community is not just about networks or recognition—it’s about impact. Every mentee who gains confidence, every HR professional who levels up because of shared learning, is a victory for the entire profession.
“When we invest in others, we don’t just help individuals—we help organizations, industries, and even society at large,” she said.
Whether it’s through one-on-one mentorship, community-building, or national-level advocacy, Marichu K. Cruz continues to lead a movement that empowers the heart of every organization: its people.
