Erie, Pa. -- October 2, 1997 -- Erie Insurance Group today announced that Philip A. Garcia, CPA, FLMI, ACS, has been appointed executive vice president and chief financial officer for the ERIE companies, effective immediately.

Mr. Garcia has been associated with Erie Indemnity Company since 1981, including the past four years as senior vice president and controller. Erie Indemnity Company (Nasdaq: ERIE) is the principal management company for the member companies of the Erie Insurance Group. Mr. Garcia joined the company as a corporate accountant, was promoted to department manager of internal audit in 1984 and in 1988 became department manager of life accounting for the Erie Family Life Insurance Company. He was named an assistant vice president in 1985 and a vice president in 1988.

In announcing the appointment, Stephen A. Milne, ERIE's president and chief executive officer, noted "Phil is known for his integrity, energy and leadership in meeting the challenges The ERIE faces on a daily basis. Over the years he has provided The ERIE with insightful financial analysis and advice regarding our operations. We value these qualities and know they will contribute positively to his new responsibilities as chief financial officer."

Mr. Garcia earned a bachelor's degree in accounting from Grove City College and became a CPA in 1980. He is a member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants and the Pennsylvania Institute of Certified Public Accountants. He serves as a board member and treasurer for the Warner Theater Preservation Trust, as a corporator for Saint Vincent Health Center and for ten years has contributed his expertise as treasurer and member of the board of directors of the Erie Area Fund for the Arts.

Erie Indemnity Company is the principal management company for the member companies of the Erie Insurance Group, which includes the Erie Insurance Exchange, Flagship City Insurance Company, Erie Family Life Insurance Company, Erie Insurance Company, Erie Insurance Property and Casualty Company and the Erie Insurance Company of New York. Erie Insurance Exchange is the 12th largest insurer of private passenger automobiles and the 24th largest property/casualty insurer in the United States.