For many professionals, career paths are carefully mapped out. But for Marichu K. Cruz, Certified Human Resource Professional (CHRP), the journey into HR was anything but planned—and yet, it became the foundation of a meaningful and purpose-driven life.
“Like many others, I started my journey with a background in commerce and business administration. But life has a way of opening unexpected doors, and I found myself stepping into HR, unplanned, yet purposeful,” Cruz shared in an exclusive interview with Financial Adviser PH.
A Humble Start That Planted the Seeds
Cruz began her HR journey in 2014 at Anderson Asphalt Philippines, Inc., a multinational infrastructure firm. Hired initially as an Admin/HR Staff, she was introduced to the basics of employee support and compliance. While it wasn’t glamorous, the role sparked something unexpected—a deep connection to the people side of the business.
“I didn’t fully understand why I ended up in HR,” she admitted, “but as I embraced more HR duties, I began to realize that this path was not just a career—it was a calling.”
Rising Through the Ranks at Cosmetique Asia
In 2017, she took a leap of faith and joined Cosmetique Asia Corporation (CAC), the Filipino FMCG powerhouse behind brands like Silka, Juicy Cologne, Biogenic Alcohol, Bambini, and Chocomani.
“I started at the grassroots level, bringing with me humility, tenacity, and a willingness to learn,” Cruz recalled. She steadily climbed the ranks from HR Associate to HR Officer, and in March 2025, she was promoted to Senior HR Officer II.
Throughout her time at CAC, Cruz was entrusted with leading HR operations for multiple manufacturing plants. She spent five years managing the Cosmetic Plant, overseeing not just policies, but employee engagement and empowerment.
“These transitions were pivotal,” she said. “Especially during the relocation to a new facility, a massive undertaking that tested both my strategic thinking and my capacity to lead with empathy.”
Learning Without Limits
Cruz never allowed her growth to plateau. To strengthen her capabilities, she pursued further education in Professional Education and committed to eventually completing a Master’s in Human Resource Management.
“For me, learning is not an option—it is a duty,” she emphasized. “It is a responsibility to those I lead, to the people I serve, and to the profession I have come to love.”
Her pursuit of continuous growth didn’t stop at academic credentials. She also became a certified CHRP and an active volunteer at the People Management Association of the Philippines (PMAP). Most notably, she founded Bulacan HR, a growing community of HR professionals from different industries in her region.
Cruz also serves on the Board Committee of ITC-DOLE Bulacan, advocating for best practices in HR, compliance, and employee welfare within the manufacturing sector.
A Life Aligned With Purpose
When asked what HR means to her today, Cruz doesn’t hesitate.
“HR is not just what I do—it is who I am,” she said. “I remain committed to continuing this journey, ever passionate about leading with purpose and inspiring others along the way.”
For Cruz, what began as an unexpected career turn became a deeply fulfilling vocation—one that’s still unfolding and impacting lives every day.
