Former PAL exec Santa Maria named new MPTC president and CEO

Gilbert F. Santa Maria, formerly of Philippine Airlines, Inc. (PAL), has been appointed the new president and chief executive officer (CEO) of Metro Pacific Tollways Corp. (MPTC), effective September 1.

He takes over from Jose Maria K. Lim, who served as interim president and will continue as a Director of MPTC and its related companies.

Santa Maria, who led PAL through its Chapter 11 restructuring from 2019 to 2022, is tasked with MPTC's strategic growth and enhancing customer service.

His responsibilities also include optimizing operations and driving the expansion of MPTC's toll road businesses in the Philippines, Indonesia, and Vietnam.

The appointment was announced by Metro Pacific Investments Corp. (MPIC), the parent company of MPTC.

Additionally, key leadership changes were made in MPTC's subsidiaries, including new presidents for NLEX Corp. and MPT South Management Corp., and an interim chief finance officer for MPTC.