Author: Gelzon de la Cruz

Suzuki Carry now comes with 3 years free PMS labor and materials

Gelzon de la Cruz

This year, Suzuki Philippines offers the Carry compact truck with free labor and materials on preventive maintenance service (PMS) visits.  Purchase any Carry variant from January 1 to December 31, 2022 and you will be entitled to PMS visits with free labor, engine oil, and oil filter and gasket replacements for the first three years or 45,000km of the vehicle’s service life. 

Press Statement by Suzuki Philippines, Inc., “Suzuki Philippines rolls out sweet new deal for its Suzuki Carry: Carry more with free PMS for the next 3 years!” 4 January 2021:

January 1, 2022, Manila, Philippines–To start the year right, Suzuki Philippines Inc. (SPH) adds in additional incentives to new customers of the Suzuki Carry. Backed by more than 40 years of Suzuki compact truck experience, the Carry is designed to meet the needs of commercial businesses as it is packed with upgraded features and a lightweight yet fuel-efficient engine. Now, further amplifying it with additional value added incentives, this makes it the perfect companion to help drive Filipino business owners to success.

Suzuki patrons that purchase any variant of the Suzuki Carry starting January 1, 2022, all the way up until the end of the year, December 31, 2022, shall now include 3 entire years or 45,000 kilometers worth of FREE Periodic Maintenance Service (PMS) labor, engine oil, oil filter and gasket changes and/or replacements. These new purchase mechanics are applicable to all new Suzuki Carry units purchased within the said time frame mentioned to all 73 dealerships nationwide.

“Suzuki Philippines is eager to welcome new members of the Suzuki Family as we enter the new year,” shares Mr. Keiichi, Vice President and General Manager of Suzuki Automobile Division. “What better way of greeting our new customers than with the assurance and guarantee that their dependable partners in business will be taken care of and provided the quality service Suzuki prides itself in being able to provide.”

Each Suzuki Carry purchase in the coming year will include free periodic maintenance service (PMS) coupons, from 1 month / 1,000 km up until 36 months / 45,000 km. Customers will need to present these, together with the Warranty booklet, to any Dealer Service Advisor during the receiving of units for service at any Suzuki Authorized Dealer.

The periodic maintenance service (PMS) schedule for the New Suzuki Carry’s will be every 4 months or 5,000 km, whichever comes first, starting from the date of purchase and/or delivery of the unit.

With a starting price of Php 554,000, the Suzuki Carry can be converted and modified to suit any, and all business needs. It can be used as a utility van, cargo truck, or pick-up truck with the same reliability and functionality expected of a true trusted workhorse.

For more information, you may visit any of the 73 authorized Suzuki Auto dealerships nationwide or visit http://suzuki.com.ph/auto/. For daily updates on Suzuki, please like Suzuki Auto Ph’s Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/SuzukiAutoPh, follow them on twitter at https://twitter.com/SuzukiAutoPh and Instagram at @suzukiautoph.

New Montero Sport edition rounds out Mitsubishi Black Series lineup

Gelzon de la Cruz

Just a month after expanding their top end collection with the Strada Athlete in Jet Black Mica, Mitsubishi now adds the Montero Sport to their Black Series premium editions.

Press Statement by Mitsubishi Motors Philippines Corp., “The Mitsubishi Montero Sport Black series edition finally arrives,” 04 January 2022:

The Mitsubishi Montero Sport Black Series Edition in White Diamond

January 4, 2022 – Mitsubishi Motors Philippines Corporation (MMPC) officially launches the Montero Sport Black Series. The brand’s latest range of Black Series models was introduced through the Xpander first in November 2021, soon followed the Strada Athlete and now its 7-seater SUV.

The Montero Sport is known to elevate one’s journey with its luxurious design and premium features. The arrival of its Black Series edition brings those traits to a completely new level with meticulously designed accents incorporated in its exterior facade.

Alloy wheels
Front grille
Front garnish
Rear garnish
Roof
Spoiler

Noticeably in the front is a blacked out grille, headlamp extensions and bumper garnish. On top is a black roof rail and spoiler. The white diamond color option comes with a black roof, which provides a 2-tone design. To complete the all-black concept are the rear bumper garnish and 18-inch alloy wheels.

“Black symbolizes power, elegance and sophistication. With the addition of the Montero Sport in our Black Series collection, we wish to appeal to a market that intends to project the same characteristics at the same time give them an SUV that is built to handle anything,” says Mr. Takeshi Hara, President and CEO of MMPC.

The said variant comes in two colors, the other being Jet Black Mica. It also carries the top winning features that made the Montero Sport one of the best-selling SUVs in the country:

  • 2.4-liter turbo diesel engine that produces impressive power, torque and fuel efficiency
  • Spacious interior with flexible 2nd and 3rd row seats which can be configured to accommodate various cargo loads
  • Active and passive safety features that provide a worry-free drive:
    • Ultrasonic Misacceleration Mitigation System (UMS)
    • Forward Collision Mitigation System (FCM)
    • Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC)
    • Active Stability And Traction Control (ASTC)
  • Abundant comfort features and premium interior materials
  • HVAC system equipped with nanoe™ air-purifying system.

nanoe™ is a nano-sized particulate ion which helps deodorize and lessen the  inhibition of bacteria and allergens inside the vehicle.

Retail price is at PHP 1,981,000 with an additional PHP 15,000 for the White Diamond. To know more about the Montero Sport Black Series, you may visit the Mitsubishi website or schedule an appointment with your preferred dealer.

Isuzu D-Max and Mu-X top year’s Auto Focus People’s Choice Awards

Gelzon de la Cruz

Isuzu’s latest generation D-max pickup and Mu-X SUV tandem have earned top honors from motoring enthusiasts this year at the Auto Focus People’s Choice Awards. The third-generation D-Max came out on top of 140 competing models in multiple categories, earning the overall Automobile of the Year award as well as the category-specific Pick-up of the Year title, while the second-generation Mu-X (based on the third-gen D-Max) was similarly crowned SUV of the Year.

Press Statement of Isuzu Philippines Corp., “Isuzu Philippines receives Automobile of the Year, Pick-up of the Year, SUV of the year and 3 more awards in the 2021-2022 Auto Focus People’s Choice Awards,” 29 December 2021:

Isuzu Philippines Corporation (IPC) received multiple awards for their All-New Isuzu D-MAX and Isuzu mu-x models in the recently concluded 2021-2022 Auto Focus People’s Choice Awards (AFPCA) and Media Choice Awards (AFMCA). 

The AFPCA/AFMCA is organized by Sunshine Television and Marketing Services, Inc. (STV) yearly to establish the cream of the crop among the vehicles in the country via public poll. As such, the AFPCA, which gives the model and automobile of the year awards, features the voice of the public with scoring system that comprises 80% public poll and 20%-unit sales from January-November 2021.  On the other hand, the AFMCA delivers the voice of the media via votes cast by select group of recognized motoring media professionals and practitioners. Its purpose is to further recognize the automobile industry’s unending efforts to provide car owners and motorists with the best on-board features, styling, performance, and overall value. 

Out of 140 models in the 2021-2022 AFPCA Official Entry List for the Standard Classification consisting of sedan, sports car, SUV/Crossover, Van/MPV, and pick up models, the All-New Isuzu D-MAX emerged on top and bagged the 2021-2022 Auto Focus People’s Choice Automobile of The Year Award.  Additionally, IPC’s Isuzu D-Max and Isuzu mu-X topped other popular models in the market as they took the individual category titles, 2021-2022 AFPCA Pickup of the Year and 2021-2022 AFPCA SUV of the Year, respectively.

Aside from the People’s Choice awards, the All-New Isuzu D-MAX also earned the approval of the media and hailed best in three categories of Auto Focus Media Choice Awards, namely – Best Design, Best Engine Performance and Best Value-for-Money. 

“We at Isuzu are very grateful in receiving individual awards for both models as well as the prestigious 2021-2022 Automobile of the Year Award for the All-New Isuzu D-MAX. These awards provide a deeper meaning for us, as a big percentage of it came from the public – which is why, we would like to extend our thanks to our loyal customers and Isuzu fans nationwide who have been very supportive of us throughout the years. We could not have done it without you,” said IPC President Hajime Koso.

For more information about the All-New Isuzu D-MAX, and All-New mu-X log on to www.isuzuphil.com, or get in touch with your nearest Isuzu dealership.

Mitsubishi and Realme bring mother and daughter to hometown for Christmas

Gelzon de la Cruz

Leading carmaker Mitsubishi Motors and major electronics brand Realme surprised a family with a treat this month, driving a mother and her daughter to their hometown to celebrate the holidays back home after years of being away. Charmaine Bañez and daughter Kathy Domingo received care packages and were transported for free with an Xpander MPV from Navotas to QuezonProvince to be reunited with family for Christmas.

Press Statement by Mitsubishi Motors Philippines Corporation, “Mitsubishi Motors with Realme surprised and drove home 2 lucky kababayans in time for Christmas day,” 23 December 2021:

Earlier this month, Mitsubishi Motors Philippines Corporation (MMPC), in collaboration with realme, surprised and drove home 2 locals back to their hometowns to celebrate Christmas with their loved ones after years of being apart.

“Christmas in the Philippines is known to be the grandest and longest celebration across the world. And rightly so, as we Filipinos prepare for it as early as September leading to Noche Buena which is typically spent with our families and sometimes even including friends and neighbors,” said Mr. Mark Parulan, AVP for Brand Communications of MMPC. “Quarantine restrictions lightened this 2021 and inter-city travel has gradually been allowed. We found this as an opportunity to help our kababayans, who have been meaning to spend quality time with relatives in their provinces this holiday season. More to our cars being modes of transportation, Mitsubishi Motors wants to be part of creating that memorable moment for them with and through #realmeWithYou.”

Ms. Kathy Domingo and one of her 4 children with the Xpander GLS 1.5G 2WD A/T in Red Metallic

This is one of several initiatives that MMPC will undertake in a mutually agreed partnership with the leading technology brand. Documented through a short video that shows Ms. Charmaine Bañez and Ms. Kathy Domingo receiving not just a surprise care package but also an all-expense paid land travel from Navotas to Quezon Province and from Caloocan to Bulacan respectively. They were the lucky ones selected among those who submitted entries through a Facebook post.

Mitsubishi’s best-selling MPV and pick-up truck made their journeys even more special. The Xpander served looks with its sportiness inside and out. Designed with Omotenashi or “Japanese hospitality” in mind, its 7-seat cabin had an inviting aura that brought added comfort and ample space for those onboard including their luggages. Whereas the Strada Athlete commanded the road from smooth pavements to muddy terrains. Though built for off-roading or carrying heavier loads, its ride felt like a passenger car but with a roomier interior and an advanced safety suite so everyone was at ease and had a worry-free trip.

#realmeWithYou convoy of Mitsubishi cars en route to Bulacan from Caloocan

According to Mr. Takeshi Hara, MMPC’s President and CEO, “we would like to thank realme for allowing us to use our vehicles in spreading joy and love. Furthermore, in honor of our renewed commitment to make lives better, Filipinos can expect Mitsubishi Motors to be by their side whatever the occasion or season may be.”

#realmeWithYou is a multi-faceted holiday campaign that aims to thank realme fans for making the brand the country’s number 1 smartphone brand for 3 consecutive quarters this 2021. With the objective of making the “Squad” feel that realme is one with them this holiday season, they rolled out an exciting roster of initiatives including promos, contests, the RMC Streamers’ Royale Tournament, and the Christmas Raffle Promo with amazing prizes including a brand-new Mitsubishi Mirage G4.

The clip can be viewed through the Mitsubishi Motors Philippines’ website and realme’s official YouTube channel.

BYD electric vehicles join Meralco service fleet

Gelzon de la Cruz

Major independent Chinese brand BYD has partnered with eSakay to provide the latter’s parent company Meralco with EV fleet vehicles. BYD e2 hatchbacks and T3 vans are now part of Meralco’s pivot to an EV fleet for more sustainable transport solutions under its Green Mobility Program

Press Statement by Solar Transport and Automotive Resources Corp., “Largest Electric Vehicle Fleet in the Philippines powered by BYD,” 22 December 2021:

Carmaker BYD has partnered with Manila Electric Co.’s (“Meralco”) subsidiary, eSakay, Inc. (“eSakay”) to serve Meralco’s Green Mobility Program with BYD pure electric vehicles (“EVs”): the BYD e2 and BYD T3. Through this breakthrough program, Meralco has initiated its big leap towards the electrification of its vehicle fleet in the coming years. This is all part of the Company’s commitment to deploy and utilize greener and more sustainable transportation solutions. 

During the launch of new EV fleet last December 7, Meralco Chief Sustainability Officer and eSakay President and CEO Raymond B. Ravelo said: “Beyond delivering accessible and reliable electricity service to households and businesses, we, in Meralco, are also at the forefront of providing sustainable solutions to our customers. With our important and intensified shift to vehicle electrification, we hope to influence and inspire others to follow suit and to likewise embed sustainability in their operations.” 

Further, he added, “Our strategic collaboration with BYD underscores eSakay’s continuing commitment to promote the country’s important transition to electrified transport.  It also highlights and heightens our pledge to provide our clients with top-notch, reliable, and fit-for-purpose electric vehicles, supported by requisite charging infrastructure solutions.  This is all geared towards enabling our clients to enhance their operations while advancing their sustainability agenda.”

“I’m so proud to be part of this Green Mobility program and honored to enable companies and individuals that lead by example towards sustainable mobility ultimately preserving our environment. I’m excited to take part in serving our community more, with every conventional vehicle’s switch to electric expected to benefit everyone, and not only the ones who bought them,” said Mark Andrew Tieng, Managing Director of BYD.

BYD’s EV and HEV line up consists of the Dolphin, a 5-door fully electric hatchback with a range of  300 kms on a full charge; the T3,  a 7-seater fully electric van with a range of 250 kms per charge; the Tang, the premium luxury flagship 7 seater SUV with a range of 500 kms; and the Han, the premium luxury flagship sedan with a range of 600 kms.

Its cars also include Song Plus, a new generation hybrid SUV that is powered by BYD’s DM-I technology and has a 60km EV range and a 1.5 liter engine that acts as a EV range extender, which also powers the motors and recharges the battery, and only propels the vehicle when speeds are more than 80 km/h.

BYD, which stands for “Build Your Dreams”, has been the most aggressive among all carmakers that use electricity. The company has led the EV-olution of vehicles in China and is now making its presence felt all over the world.  Its cars use game-changing blade batteries that are safer, lighter, more reliable and more energy dense.  In the Philippines, STAR Corp. is the exclusive distributor of BYD vehicles, headquartered in 1702 Dian St. corner Gil Puyat Ave. Makati City.

LausGroup’s Ford dealership, first to implement ‘Balik Baterya’ program

Gelzon de la Cruz

LausGroup reports that the Ford dealership under its Global Cars Philippines subsidiary is the first to fully implement its component of the Balik Baterya brand-wide program. Initially launched in 2006, the battery return and recycling program is a joint project of Ford Philippines and its dealers, Motolite, and the Philippine Business for Social Progress non-government organization.

Press Statement by Laus Group of Companies, “LausGroup’s Global Cars Philippines the pilot Ford dealer to roll out ‘Balik Baterya Program’: The battery recycling program is implemented in partnership with Ford Philippines, Motolite, and the PBSP,” 21 December 2021:

City of San Fernando, Pampanga–The LausGroup of Companies (LGC), owner of dealer principal Global Cars Philippines, is the pilot Ford dealership to fully implement the Balik Baterya Program, in partnership with  Ford Philippines, Motolite, and the Philippine Business for Social Progress (PBSP).

First launched by Motolite in 2006, the battery recycling program aims to collect used lead-acid batteries (ULABs) from PBSP’s member companies for proper recycling and production of new automotive and industrial batteries. In turn, the participating companies and partners may allocate the proceeds of the sale of their ULABs for CSR projects in health and education, or for their chosen beneficiaries.

As the pioneer Ford dealership to adapt the Balik Baterya Program, LGC’s Global Cars Philippines has collected over 75 used car batteries within seven months and has just transferred its first batch for recycling to Motolite.

The program is also being implemented in most service departments across other LausGroup dealerships, as part of the Pampanga-based conglomerate’s commitment to foster environmental stewardship and sustainability in its line of business.

In her keynote speech, LGC Chief Executive Officer and 2021 Ford Dealership Honoree Lisset Laus-Velasco said, “It is our hope that through this program, we are able to affect change in our communities by pioneering sustainable business practices, geared towards promoting progressive countryside development that is shared by all.”

“Through the Balik Baterya Program, we are able to bring to life Ford’s global commitment to environmental sustainability in the Philippines and work with our Ford dealers and like-minded partners such as Motolite and PBSP to reinforce this advocacy. At the same time, the program provides an opportunity for our dealer partners to create and even expand their corporate social responsibility (CSR) programs to support more beneficiaries,” Ford Philippines President and Managing Director Michael Allen Breen said.

Various representatives from the PBSP and Ford Dealer Principals and dealerships across the country were also in attendance in the virtual signing ceremony of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) last October 22 to mark the significant milestone for the flagship battery recycling program.

To know more about the Balik Baterya Program and how you can turn in your used car batteries for recycling, you may visit www.lausgroup.com.ph or www.ford.com.ph, or visit Ford Global Cars Philippines dealerships in Metro Manila and Pampanga.

New Suzuki car buyers get Suzuki-Caltex SavePlus Cards for PhP1.00 to PhP2.00/liter fuel discounts

Gelzon de la Cruz

Suzuki Philippines has partnered up with Chevron Philippines to provide new Suzuki vehicle owners with PhP1.00 to PhP2.00 per liter discounts at Caltex filling stations. All customers who purchase Suzuki vehicles from 1 December 2021 to 10 November 2022 will receive Suzuki-Caltex SavePlus Cards that entitle them to PhP2.00/liter off on gasoline and PhP1.00/liter off on diesel fuel purchases at any Caltex station nationwide.

Press Statement by Suzuki Philippines, Inc., “Suzuki announces partnership with Caltex Philippines: Suzuki welcomes the new month of December, joins forces with their fuel card of choice, Caltex Saveplus.,” 21 December 2021:

Manila, Philippines–Suzuki Philippines Inc. (SPH) recently announced the commencement of its partnership with one of the leading fuel brands in the country, Caltex, at the start of December 2021.

Caltex is marketed and distributed by Chevron Philippines Inc. (Chevron), one of the world’s largest and globally integrated oil and energy companies, with more than 500 service stations across the nation. Through this partnership, customers who purchased any Suzuki vehicle from December 2021 to November 10, 2022 shall be entitled to a Suzuki – Caltex SavePlus Card. The card lets the customers enjoy fuel discounts for Silver/Platinum with Techron at Php 2.00/L while a Php 1.00/L off for Caltex Diesel with Techron.

“Chevron is grateful for this opportunity to join forces with a brand we have always been avid supporters of,” shared Mr. Billy Liu, Chevron’s Country Chair. “We are looking forward to this joint venture which I believe will be beneficial for all parties involved.”

As the economy is starting to open up once again and mobility plays a crucial role towards our road to recovery, having a Caltex SavePlus card plays a vital road to do and accomplish more things.

Mr. Keiichi Suzuki, Suzuki Philippines Vice President and General Manager, recently shared his enthusiasm over this new partnership. “For us in Suzuki Philippines, it has always been about improving the customer experience. This is a great way for us to give back and support our customers as we show our resiliency and determination to bounce back for greater things ahead. Our customers deserve to enjoy and create more memories with their Suzuki cars. ”

For more information, you may visit any of the 73 authorized Suzuki Auto dealerships nationwide or visit http://suzuki.com.ph/auto/. For daily updates on Suzuki, please like Suzuki Auto Ph’s Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/SuzukiAutoPh, follow them on twitter at https://twitter.com/SuzukiAutoPh and Instagram at @suzukiautoph.

Mitsubishi Philippines, first carmaker to get DOLE Safety Seal

Gelzon de la Cruz

Mitsubishi Motors Philippines Corp. (MMPC), the country’s longest operating automotive manufacturer, reports becoming the first carmaker to earn the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) Safety Seal–certifying MMPC’s compliance with public health standards and signifying their participation in the national program to restore confidence and reopen the economy.

Press Statement by Mitsubishi Motors Philippines Corp., “MMPC becomes the first car manufacturer in the Philippines to receive DOLE’s Safety Seal,” 20 December 2021:

Mitsubishi Motors Philippines Corporation (MMPC) officially received a “Safety Seal” from the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE). On November 18, 2021, MMPC became the first and only car manufacturer in the country with such an accreditation.

The Safety Seal certifies that an establishment or institution strictly observes the minimum public health standards set by the government and/or has successfully integrated with StaySafe.ph, the country’s centralized contact tracing databank. Both of which MMPC has qualified in. This national program aims to restore public confidence in an effort to slowly reopen the economy as supported by other sectoral offices like the Department of Health (DOH), Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG), Department of Tourism, and the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI).

“Mitsubishi has always put a premium on safety not just in the engineering of our cars but also in the way we conduct business. That is why MMPC, being the longest staying automotive company in the country, wants to do its part to be alongside Filipinos transitioning into the new normal,” said Mr. Takeshi Hara, President and CEO of MMPC. “We make it a point to maintain only the highest standards when it comes to health and safety at the workplace. Through it we create a space with minimal hazards that enable positivity and productivity among our employees.”

MMPC’s Safety Seal covers its Sta. Rosa Plant and Parts Warehouse in the Greenfield Automotive Park-Special Economic Zone (GAP-SEZ) and will be valid for 6 months. The latter is to ensure the credibility and timeliness of the badge. All holders will be required to file for renewal and undergo DOLE’s rigorous inspection process all over again after the aforementioned period.

“COVID-19 has taught us many important lessons, one in particular is the importance of emotional well-being. Through our newly issued DOLE certification, we want to offer peace of mind and assure our customers, partners and the general public that Mitsubishi Motors takes safety very seriously,” Mr. Hara adds. This is one of the components of MMPC’s new local slogan Life Made Better. The brand is adopting a more holistic approach to deliver value in every step of a Filipino’s vehicle ownership journey and fulfill its commitment to the betterment of the economy. Learn more about it through Mitsubishi’s official website and Facebook Page.

Dongfeng pickup and cargo van EVs deployed under Meralco’s eSakay projects

Gelzon de la Cruz

PilipinasAuto, distributor of Dongfeng vehicles, now participates in Meralco subsidiary eSakay’s electric transport projects, providing Dongfeng Rich 9 crew-cab’d and camper-shelled pickup trucks for Meralco’s Green Mobility program, and Dongfeng EM26 cargo vans for logistics service provider Mober’s transport operations.

Press Statement by Pilipinas Autogroup, Inc., “PilipinasAuto supplies eSakay with Electric Vehicles,” 17 December 2021:

Pilipinas Autogroup, Inc. (PilipinasAuto), has been tapped by Manila Electric Co.’s (Meralco) subsidiary, eSakay, Inc., for its electric transport projects. In particular, two electric vehicle (“EV”) models have been deployed in partnership with eSakay—an electric pick-up for Meralco’s Green Mobility Program, and an electric van for tech-logistics firm Mober’s sustainable logistics services. 

(photo by Meralco)

Through its Green Mobility Program, Meralco is beginning to electrify its vehicle fleet as part of the company’s commitment to utilize greener and more sustainable transportation solutions.  Meanwhile, Filipino company Mober is spearheading a revolution in the logistics industry by utilizing the Philippines’ first electric delivery van for one of the largest retailers in the world. As such, PilipinasAuto and eSakay have rolled out two models—the Dongfeng Rich 6 EV and Dongfeng EM26 Cargo Van EV. 

The Dongfeng Rich 6 EV is the first mass produced electric pick up in the world. The Rich 6 is one of many products co-developed with Nissan since the two companies started their joint venture in 2003. The electric version of the Rich 6 has a permanent magnet synchronous motor capable of delivering 163 Ps and 420 Nm of torque to the rear wheels. Powering the motor is a 67.9kWh ternary lithium-ion battery pack that can reach a cruising range of 403km based on the New European Driving Cycle or NEDC.

On the other hand, the Dongfeng EM26 EV Cargo Van which is a closed van ideal for courier and logistics companies as it can carry 1,360 kgs in its 5.6 cubic meter cargo space. This model also has a permanent magnet synchronous motor driving the rear wheels and can produce a maximum power of 95 Ps and 230Nm of torque. The battery pack is a 41.9 kWh lithium iron phosphate that provides a range of 220 kms.

“The electric vehicle era is fast approaching as technology accelerates to evolve. This is evidenced by the incredible operating range of the Dongfeng Rich 6 which could not have been realized 5 years ago.  Our partnership with eSakay builds excitement for us as we are able to introduce Dongfeng’s exemplary technology in electric vehicles to the Philippines. It is only a matter of time before we make these EVs available to the public.” said in a statement by PilipinasAuto’s president and General Manager, Ms. Ginia Domingo.

“Our strategic collaboration with PilipinasAuto underscores eSakay’s continuing commitment to promote the country’s important transition to electrified transport.  It also highlights and heightens our pledge to provide our clients with top-notch, reliable, and fit-for-purpose electric vehicles, supported by requisite charging infrastructure solutions.  This is all geared towards enabling our clients to enhance their operations while advancing their sustainability agenda,” Meralco Chief Sustainability Officer and eSakay CEO, Raymond B. Ravelo , said. 

Further, he added, “Through our partnership with PilipinasAuto, we continue to be catalysts of green mobility, as part of our thrust to protect and preserve our planet.” 

REFERENCES

About Pilipinas Autogroup, Inc.: Pilipinas Autogroup, Incorporated (PilipinasAuto) was established in 2014 as the official distributor of Tata vehicles in the country. In 2019, it expanded its brand portfolio with the introduction of Dongfeng, another world-class brand of commercial vehicles into the country. Among the trucks that the Dongfeng brand carries are the Captain E, Captain N, Captain D9. Also available are cargo trucks, tractor heads, cement mixers, dump trucks, and minibuses. PilipinasAuto participates in the PUV modernization program with its modern designs of class 2 and class 3 jeepneys. PilipinasAuto currently has twelve (12) dealerships nationwide. 

About eSakay, Inc.: eSakay is the green mobility arm of Meralco that provides end-to-end EV and charging solutions for commercial and industrial institutions as well as the riding public. It is committed to enabling and supporting the country’s transition towards a cleaner and a more sustainable transport system. (inquiry@e-sakay.ph )

Isuzu Philippines gets third consecutive triple-star rating for aftersales service excellence

Gelzon de la Cruz

Isuzu Philippines has again rated a Triple Star Distributor and Dealer Aftersales Award at the annual Isuzu World Technical Competition. For the third year in a row since the awards were first given by Isuzu Motors Limited of Japan in 2018, Isuzu Philippines Corp. has rated top honors among single-, double- and triple-star winners for aftersales service excellence. And, the back-to-back-to-back win comes in the face of even more stringent standards this year with the globe approaching two years under pandemic disruptions.

Press Statement by Isuzu Philippines Corp., “Isuzu Philippines Garners Triple Star in the 2021 Isuzu Distributor and Dealer Aftersales Award,” 16 December 2021: 

Isuzu Philippines Corporation (IPC) takes pride and joy as it bags another “Triple Star” award in the recently concluded 2021 Isuzu Distributor & Dealer Aftersales Award.  This award is given by Isuzu Motors Limited, Japan (IML) since 2018, to Isuzu Distributors and Dealers worldwide for providing excellent aftersales service, with awards ranging from Single to Triple star as the highest accolade to be attained. This year, despite the standards made more stringent, IPC managed to receive the highest rating, making IPC a Triple Star awardee for three consecutive years.  IPC’s back-to-back-to-back title can be attributed to the collaborative efforts and commitment of the entire dealer network to continuously improve its aftersales operations and technical skills in the aim to provide utmost customer experience.  

“We couldn’t be happier, receiving the Triple Star award for three consecutive years proves that Isuzu Philippines’ aftersales service is at par with the global standard. This is the fruit of our hard labor and the collaborative effort from our dealer network to provide the best aftersales service to our customer nationwide. With this award, we promise to continue on our commitment towards achieving utmost ‘Customer Success’, not just by strengthening our aftersales activities but by continuing to provide competitive products and innovative customer experience with the support for our growing network,” said IPC President, Hajime Koso.

The recognition was announced during the awarding ceremony of the 2021 Isuzu World Technical Competition virtual competition, otherwise known as I-1 Grand Prix, where the company also showed its technical prowess.  Team Isuzu Philippines, composed of Gian Cosico, Head Coach/IPC Training Department and technicians Harvey Jay Ragrag of Isuzu Isabela and Leonido Gascon of Isuzu Davao won 4th Place in the Commercial Vehicle Division Team Category, out of 41 competing countries. Gascon also won 6th place in the Individual Technician Category, competing against 82 other Isuzu technicians worldwide.

(From L-R) Hajime Koso (IPC President), Mr. Harvey Jay Ragrag (Technician, Isuzu Isabela), Mr. Leonido Gascon (Isuzu Davao), Gian Cosico (I-1GP Team Coach and IPC Technical Trainer)

“In order to support the operation of Isuzu vehicles all over the world, I-1 Grand-Prix will continue to evolve with the aim of raising service technical skills.  Moreover, this is the 4th time for us to hold the Aftersales Award, and 51 subsidiaries coming from 49 countries have participated. The purpose of this award is to review the aftersales activities of each company and to lead to improvements. We will continue to hold this award and work to establish it,” said Mr. Yasuyuki Niijima, Isuzu Motors Limited Senior Executive Officer.

To know more about the Isuzu Philippines’ world-class roster of commercial vehicles, log on to www.isuzuphil.com, or call your nearest Isuzu dealership.