Category: Isuzu

Isuzu’s D-Max Limited with 200-unit production-run brandishes tactical-looking grille, class-topping 260mm clearance

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Isuzu Philippines has rolled out the D-Max Limited, the first factory-accessorized variant of the popular pick-up’s third generation model that was introduced globally in June 2020 and here in March 2021. Priced at P1.580M, the new offering is based on the D-Max’s bestselling P1.460M 3.0 4×2 LS-A AT variant with a P0.120M price bump being asked for: (1) the exclusivity of a limited 200-unit run; (2) new front grille, side and rear treatments; and (3), an enhanced suspension system with mono-tube dampers and solid shackles that raise its ground clearance to a groundbreaking 260mm.

Image from Isuzu Philippines Corporation (IPC)

The new, limited-run offering spotlights the sweetspot in the middle of what is now the D-Max’s 9-variant lineup with its nearly P1M price spread between the P0.917M 1.9 liter RZ4E Single Cab 4×2 MT and the P1.905M top-spec’d 3.0 liter 4×4 LS-E AT. While already based on the popular 3.0 liter 2-wheel drive luxury trim variant, the D-Max Limited’s P0.120M price rise seems offset by more resale points gained from its 200-unit production run. It also helps that all modification accessories on the D-Max Limited come with brand authenticity, having been designed by Isuzu Accessories and Service Parts at their Thai production hub.

Images from D-Max Limited online brochure of IPC

Introduced here in the same week that the face-lifted third generation D-Max was unveiled globally, the Limited’s front grille modification causes the special variant to fork-off earnestly from the original design while keeping it significantly different from the refreshed model with its revised fascia. The Limited’s blacked out grille opens up the venting, eliminating those horizontal upper-grille devices that look like upper fangs on the original design and like upturned tusks on the update. The D-Max Limited’s new grille is more milspec and tactical in comparison to the predatory creature looks on original and facelifted 3rd-gen D-Maxes–we’re saying this is a good thing.

RWD photo from 12 October 2023 launch event

The nitrogen-charged mono-tube shock absorbers mated to its stabilized double-wishbone  coil-sprung front, and to soft-ride leaf springs with solid shackles at the rear, have raised the D-Max Limited’s ground clearance up to an unprecedented 260mm. This is 20mm higher than the model’s top-of-the-line 4×4 LS-E variant’s 240mm (and 13mm more than the 247mm of the previous-generation model’s special 4×4 Boondock variant–itself having mono-tube shocks that raised it 12mm above its stock platform). 

RWD photo from 12 October 2023 launch event

Predictably, many will point out the irony of lifting a rear-wheel driven 4×2 truck this high, possibly lobbying for a 4×4 all-terrain version of this limited-run special. But note that the 20mm upgrade also gets added to the 800mm maximum wading depth asserted by Isuzu for stock variants. And, even with the monsoon season having officially ended this week, images of sudden and paralyzing floods on national roads should remain vivid in buyers’ minds until next year’s drenchers come along, making that 260mm of class-topping clearance a deal-closing feature for the D-Max Limited as an ideal, and ironically premium, all-weather ute.

Isuzu Dasmariñas now Isuzu Philippines’ 49th dealership for country, operator’s 2nd storefront in Cavite

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Isuzu Philippines nears their 50th dealership milestone with the opening of their new storefront in Dasmarinas, Cavite. Isuzu Dasmarinas, their 49th dealership, puts their new Isuzu Outlet Standard design on a full-on facility which features a 3-vehicle showroom, 7 service bays that can each accommodate light vehicles up to oversized heavy-duty trucks. The new outlet,  located at a major juncture on Emilio Aguinaldo Highway, is now the second Isuzu dealership of Iconic Dealership, Inc. (IDI), joining their Isuzu Bacoor operation and replacing their de-commissioned Imus dealership.

Press Statement by Isuzu Philippines Corp., “Isuzu strengthens market presence in Cavite, opens Dasmariñas dealership,” 21 September 2023:

Isuzu Philippines Corporation (IPC) further expands its market in Cavite with the opening of Isuzu Dasmariñas. Operated by Iconic Dealership Inc. (IDI), Isuzu Dasmariñas will be the second dealership of IDI in the province, along with Isuzu Bacoor as they permanently closed their Isuzu Imus outlet focusing only in two cities in Cavite.

(from left) IPC VP for Sales Yasuhiko Oyama, IPC VP for Aftersales Wataru Miyamoto, IPC Executive Vice President Shojiro Sakoda, IPC Tetsuya Fujita, IDI President Toti Zara, IDI COO Alex Paguio and Isuzu Dasmariñas Branch Manager Valance Mauricio

“The Isuzu brand has always been a jewel within IDI, it amounts to a one-third of our business, and with this relocation we expect better returns in future as it is located at the crossroads of two major thoroughfare, meaning there will be better visibility and accessibility to our customers in the area. The opening is also very timely, since the industry is expecting to reach pre-pandemic level by the end of the year, hopefully fully recovered by next year,” said IDI President Toti Zara.

Situated along the Emilio Aguinaldo Highway, the new dealership has a total land area of 5,000 sqm with a spacious showroom that can display up to 3 vehicles including truck and offers an expansive façade with ample parking space for customers. Designed with customer satisfaction in mind, the dealership has a comfortable customer lounge while you wait for your vehicle being serviced in their extensive service shop with 7 service bays that can cater from light commercial vehicles to heavy-duty trucks.

Fully compliant with the Isuzu Outlet Standard, the dealership is aligned with Isuzu’s Global Dealership Standard, giving importance not just in Sales but the over-all customer journey – starting from their inquiry, sales, after sales service and their continuous return to our showroom, this new outlet standard will enable us to provide customer support in every step of the way.

“Considered as of one of the most competitive cities not just in CALABARZON but nationwide, Dasmarinas’ growth over the past years as shown to be strategic for Isuzu to set foot in this area. We are happy that through IDI the brand will have bigger presence not just in this city but in the entire province in the next years to come. We are confident that with IDI’s expertise in providing excellent customer service, will be able to take good care of our customers in this area similar to other dealerships they operate,” said IPC President Tetsuya Fujita.

The newly opened Isuzu Dasmarinas outlet joins 48 other Isuzu dealerships located across the country, offering their latest line-up of pick-up, SUV and best-selling trucks with world renowned durability and reliability. To know more about Isuzu and their latest product line-up, log on to www.isuzuphil.com.

Isuzu Philippines rolls out newest Class 2 modern PUV design

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Isuzu Philippines has presented the latest among several designs for modern Class 2 public utility vehicles, this newest model featuring side doors up front for driver and passenger, making it more similar in layout to the classic jeepney.

Press Statement by Isuzu Philippines Corp., “Isuzu PH presents new PUV Class 2 design to elevate Filipino commuting experience,” 02 May 2023:

Isuzu Philippines Corporation (IPC), one of the pioneer providers of modern public utility vehicles (PUV) in the country, presented its new PUV Class 2 design to Department of Transportation (DOTr) and Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) at LTFRB NCR Office last April 28, 2023.

The event was well attended by DOTr Secretary Jaime Bautista, LTFRB Chairman Atty. Teofilo Guadiz III, CESE LTFRaB Regional Director II – NCR Atty. Zona Russet Tamayo and Pasang Masda Jeepney Transport Service Corp. President Roberto “Ka-Obet” Martin. On the other hand, Isuzu Philippines was led by its Vice President for Sales Yasuhiko Oyama, Yuchengco Group Head Johnny Fetalvero and Del Monte Motor Works Inc Executive Vice President – Don Morales. Also in attendance were numerous transport cooperatives, suppliers and banks partners.

PHOTO From left: IPC Asst. Division Head for Sales – Robert Carlos; CESE Regional Director II LTFRB-NCR – Atty. Zona Russet Tamayo; Yuchengco Group Head – Johnny Fetalvero; IPC VP for Sales – Yasuhiko Oyama; LTRFB Chairman – Atty. Teofilo Guadiz III; DOTr Secretary – Jaime Bautista; Pasang Masda President – Roberto “Obet” Martin; IPC Dept. Head for CV Sales – Mario Ojales

Integrating the needs of the driver and commuters into the new body design, the new Isuzu PUV now has two side doors for the driver and front passenger, just like the old Jeepneys. Aligned with the updated Philippine National Standard (PNS) Guidelines for Class 2 PUV, the new redesigned panoramic windows, cushioned seats, and new luggage compartments are all designed for the convenience of passengers. As basic parts of the modern PUV, its features also included GPS unit, Automated Payment System, Built-in Monitor and Digital Signboards to name a few. All these features help elevate the commuting experience of Filipinos.

During his speech, Ka-Obet shared to his fellow transport cooperatives the advantages of modernizing their fleet with a reliable brand like Isuzu, “Our chosen PUVs will be our workhorse for decades, so we need a PUV that is durable and can give reassurance to the safety and convenience of our drivers and passengers.”

PHOTO From left (front): IPC Asst. Division Head for Sales – Robert Carlos; IPC Dept. Head for CV Sales – Mario Ojales; Yuchengco Group Head – Johnny Fetalvero; IPC VP for Sales – Yasuhiko Oyama; DOTr Secretary – Jaime Bautista; Pasang Masda President – Roberto “Obet” Martin; LTRFB Chairman – Atty. Teofilo Guadiz III;  CESE Regional Director II LTFRB-NCR – Atty. Zona Russet Tamayo; Office of Transport Cooperatives Chairman – Jesus Ferdinand “Andy” Ortega; ACTO National President  – Liberty de Luna; Del Monte Motor Works Inc. Executive Vice President – Don Morales

From left (back): Euodoo Technologies Inc. President – Julius Evan Zapata; LTOP President – Orlando Marquez; Philippine Cooling Expert Services Corp Vice President – Michael Tagle

Pasang Masda’s strong commitment to uplifting the quality of public transportation has led them to organizing this movement towards modernizing and continuously improving their fleet. Pasang Masda’s fleet only comprised of Isuzu PUVs. They are planning to add more of these newly designed PUVs to their fleet which will be utilized on additional routes within the Metro.

“We all love our old jeepneys due to its durability and reliability, and today, we are providing you the same core values plus more. With the new Isuzu PUV you don’t just get durability, reliability, and fuel efficiency but also an elevated comfort and convenience,” said VP Oyama.

To complete the package, IPC also offers an extensive aftersales support. With its 48 outlets nationwide which are all capable of servicing light to heavy-duty trucks and nationwide parts availability, transport cooperatives will not have to worry about vehicle maintenance and operation downtime. At Isuzu, their purchase is just the beginning of a long-term partnership because IPC together with its dealers makes sure that transport cooperatives will get the most out of their Isuzu PUV.

Follow Isuzu Philippines’ official Facebook page at www.facebook.com/IsuzuPhilippines to get regular updates on the Isuzu brand.

Isuzu officially launches refreshed Mu-X and D-Max at Alabang music festival

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After announcing the refreshed iteration of their latest-generation Mu-X SUV last month, Isuzu Philippines officially launched this and their latest edition D-Max pickup at the Isuzu Summer Music Festival held at the Alabang Town Center from April 21 to 23, 2023.

Press Statement by Isuzu Philippines Corp., “Isuzu PH officially launches latest edition of Isuzu D-MAX and mu-X,” 21 April 2023:

In a festive summer musical event hosted by Isuzu Philippines Corporation (IPC), the company introduced its latest edition of the Isuzu D-MAX and Isuzu mu-X at Alabang Town Center on April 21 to 23, 2023.

Dubbed as the ‘Isuzu Summer Music Festival”, IPC displayed its new Isuzu D-MAX and mu-X along with other activities, such as free test drive, afternoon games, dog show, car club meet-up and live performances from well-loved OPM artists to entertain the whole family.

During the opening event, IPC highlighted the new features of both models adding to the already award-winning specifications of the vehicles.  The new Isuzu D-MAX is now made even more dynamic and sporty with a redesigned exterior that boasts a new two-tone front grille matched with its new matte dark gray 18-inch alloy wheels all laden in its new body color Islay Gray, giving it a rugged yet stylish look.

Meanwhile, the new mu-X was also displayed alongside D-MAX and was highlighted as a “Premium Family SUV” that’s perfect for road trips, especially this summer season. The premium SUV’s fresh new look brought by its new sleek two-tone front grille and new 20-inch alloy wheels design exudes an upscale and luxurious vibe, elevating its exterior design. The new mu-X also has a classy new color variant, Norwegian Blue which is available for LS-E variants.

To top it all off, the new Isuzu mu-X further elevates the family experience with its new owner-friendly features like the new Smart Power Tailgate with Step Sensor. This is a new feature that allows owner to open its tailgate automatically through advance key detection and sensor technology for more convenient loading and unloading of luggage.

‘Proven Durability and 5-Star Safety’ for the Family

More than the aesthetics, IPC highlighted the renowned durability and safety features of both models. Running on its Blue Power technology, both D-MAX and mu-X has 4JJ3-TCX diesel engine that optimizes performance with fuel efficiency – tried and tested to give drivers more miles on the road without having to spend much on fuel cost.

A true family vehicle is nothing without the best safety features, which both models offer. Both models are awarded with 5-Star Safety by the ASEAN NCAP, thanks to the Active and Passive safety features, as well as Advanced Driver Assist System (ADAS) with Smart Duo Cam which is loaded with Blind Spot Monitoring, Forward Collision Warning, Lane Departure Warning, Turn Assist, Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop & Go Functionality, to name a few. All these features will surely make daily drives safer and convenient at the same time.

As IPC President Tetsuya Fujita stated, “As your responsible partner in providing durable and reliable vehicles, we are elevating your driving experience with safer, more efficient, and more comfortable drive – a drive that will suit the needs of all members of the family.”

Since their introduction to the Philippine market, the Isuzu D-MAX and mu-X have won the heart of many Filipinos because of the value for money and core values instilled in both vehicles that offer many possibilities. The durability, fuel efficiency, comfort, and convenience that Isuzu vehicles provide to both driver and passengers are what make Isuzu not just a family vehicle, but an everyday reliable partner that will accompany Filipino families to different life’s journey.

For more details about the new Isuzu D-MAX and Isuzu mu-X, follow Isuzu Philippines’ official Facebook page at www.facebook.com/IsuzuPhilippines to get regular updates and promotions.

Isuzu refreshes current generation Mu-X SUV

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Like with their classic Crosswind AUV that stayed relevant for decades, Isuzu’s Mu-X truck-based SUV is now getting refreshing touches with less time between iterations. The second generation model introduced in 2021 now brandishes a new look fronted by a two tone grille that’s brought home with a fresh-out-of-the-can, cool-to-the-eye Nordic blue color scheme.

Press statement by Isuzu Philippines Corp., “Isuzu elevates family experience with its  new redefined Isuzu mu-X,” 17 March 2023:

Provider of one of the most durable and reliable SUVs in the market, Isuzu Philippines Corporation (IPC) gives a fresh new look to the latest edition of the Isuzu mu-X, taking Filipino family driving experience into the next level.

Sporting a new sleek two-tone front grille and 20-inch alloy wheels, the new mu-X offers an invigorating new exterior design fit for that “Premium Family SUV” image. On top of that, Isuzu introduces a new upscale and classy Norwegian Blue color, for that over-all refresh look that surely catch eyes on the road.

More than what meets the eye, the new Isuzu mu-X is packed with intuitive family features like its new Smart Power Tailgate with Step Sensor – a new feature that allows its owners to open its tailgate automatically through its advanced key detection and sensor technology, making it more convenient for owners to load and unload their baggage.

Awarded with a 5-Star rating from the ASEAN NCAP, the Isuzu mu-X is equipped with its class leading Advanced Driver Assist System (ADAS) to keep you and your family safe while driving on the road. This, together with the 2021 SUV of the Year from the Auto Focus People’s Choice Awards and 2022 Best Engine Performance from the Auto Focus Media’s Choice Awards, proves that the mu-X is still one of the most trusted and reliable family vehicle in the market today.

“The latest edition of the Isuzu mu-X with its new premium styling and smart features does not compromise the vehicle’s core value of durability, reliability, fuel efficiency and 5-star safety. We think it is this complete package that will truly elevate the driving experience of Filipino families nationwide,” says IPC President Tetsuya Fujita.

For more details about the new Isuzu mu-X, log on to www.isuzuphil.com or visit any of the Isuzu dealerships near you.

Former Isuzu Mexico CEO is new Isuzu Philippines president

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Announced last month, Tetsuya Fujita’s replacement of Noboru Murakami as Isuzu Philippines president was made official at a turnover ceremony held at the Ilustrado restaurant in historic Intramuros of Manila yesterday.

Having joined Isuzu Philippines last year (replacing long running former president Hajime Koso), Noboru Murakami saw the major truckmaker retain its long-standing market lead with a 48 percent share, the transition of their factory to the use of sustainable energy, and all these while dealing with post-pandemic recovery in 2022. He leaves for his new post as CEO and president of Isuzu North America which serves the region where new president Tetsuya Fujita had once been Isuzu’s corporate planning manager.

Fujita had been corporate planning manager with Isuzu Commercial Truck of America from 2005 to 2010. Afterwards, he was general manager for sales with Isuzu Motors International Operations Thailand (IMIT) until 2017, and then chairman and CEO of Isuzu Motors de Mexico until 2021.

Isuzu Philippines officers, left-to-right: assistant division head for sales Robert Carlos; former president Noboru Murakami; new president Tetsuya Fujita; executive vice president Shojiro Sakoda; vice president for sales Yasuhiko Oyama

Isuzu’s official statement for the turnover event reports that Fujita would have Isuzu Philippines continue it’s decades-long market leadership by continuing to expand their dealer network and by maintaining strong customer relationships. They further state that Fujita is committed to Isuzu’s “Road to Progress” vision for greener and sustainable operations that his predecessor Noboru Murakami launched last year.

Fujita said, “As the leading truck brand in the industry, we will continue innovating new products that will assist in the progress of the country while displaying more responsibility to the society and the environment through our Road to Progress vision.

Isuzu completes Japanese big brands line up at 8th PIMS

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Isuzu again headlines the Philippine International Motor Show after the event’s lockdown hiatus since 2018, exhibiting their iconic diesel-powered commercial and sport utility haulers, as well as their extensive aftersales program, to savvy motorists.

Press statement by Isuzu Philippines Corp., “Isuzu Philippines showcases extensive product line-up and aftersales program at the 8th Philippine International Motor Show,” 15 September 2022:

Isuzu Philippines Corporation (IPC) joins the much-awaited 8th Philippine International Motor Show from September 15 to September 18, 2022. The World Trade Center in Pasay City is filled once again with different types of automobiles from different brands to showcase this year’s theme, Mobility + Humanity: Innovating for the Common Good.

Isuzu Philippines’ take on this year’s theme is an extension of their recently announced Road To Progress vision on their 25th Inaugural Anniversary last July. With sustainability and responsible partnership as their core concept, IPC designed a booth that encompasses the benefits of Isuzu products and services to the society. More than the durable and reliable vehicles, providing mobility and transport solutions has been IPC’s vital role in Filipino’s lives which enables them to take ahold of the title “Number 1 Truck Brand in the Philippines” for twenty-two (22) consecutive years. 

From left: VP Sales,Yasuhiko Oyama; EVP, Shojiro Sakoda; President, Noboru Murakami; VP Aftersales, Wataru Miyamoto; Sales Assistant Division Head, Robert Carlos

Inside the main hall, Isuzu boasts one of their best-selling trucks, the Isuzu TRAVIZ. With its big cargo capacity and excellent fuel economy that can reach up to 1,063 kms in just one full tank, the TRAVIZ easily captured the heart of SMEs and Fleet customers alike, selling more than 10,000 units in its first 2 years in the market.

The N-Series Smoother, a first in its class with Automated Manual Transmission, also takes a spot inside the Isuzu booth. Ease in operation and fuel efficiency make it easier for drivers and even business owners themselves to drive this truck around the bustling roads of the metro.

Aiming to provide a modern and safe mass transport solution, Isuzu also displays the NLR PUV equipped with an array of safety and convenient features to elevate the commuting experience of Filipinos.

Along with the trucks, the D-MAX and mu-X are the forefront of the line-up, showcasing powerful yet fuel efficient performance, spacious interior, luxurious details, and 5-star safety features, making them an excellent choice for Filipino families nationwide.

At the outdoor display area, Isuzu publicly displays for the first time the latest addition to their heavy-duty line-up – the All-New GXZ. This 10-wheeler tractor head is equipped with the latest safety features like the Electronic Vehicle Stability Control and the Anti-lock Braking System, adding to the list of ‘solutions’ that Isuzu offers to meet the growing demand for safety in the trucking industry.

Together with the All-New GXZ, Isuzu also flaunts a custom-made TRAVIZ Ambulance and NPR Double Cab to show that Isuzu trucks are not just durable and reliable, but also customizable to fit the various requirements of customers.

As part of being a responsible partner, Isuzu also offers solution to their customers’ arising concern regarding the continuously increasing fuel prices. Isuzu Philippines recently conducted a One Full Tank Challenge for the D-MAX and mu-X verified by the Automobile Association Philippines (AAP).

The team embarked on a 5-day road trip with both models driven normally, traversing different road, traffic and weather conditions from Subic up to Ilocos then down to Bicol. The Isuzu DMAX was able to travel around 1,564 kilometers or 20.58 km/l in just one full tank while the result for Isuzu mu-X is at 1,675 kilometers or 20.94km/l in one full tank.

With the outstanding fuel efficiency these two (2) light commercial vehicles exhibits on normal driving and road condition, Isuzu proves that Isuzu D-MAX and Isuzu mu-X are not just comfortable and safe, but also economical and environment-friendly, providing Filipino families more savings and opportunity to travel and spend more time on the road.

And to give customers a first-hand experience of these features, test drive units are available during the 4-day event for those who will register at the Isuzu booth.

Apart from the exciting vehicle line-up, Isuzu also gives guests a glimpse of the advantages of being part of the Isuzu Family with their equally extensive aftersales programs. In their Customer Lounge area, Isuzu reiterates that they are offering not just products, but rather their ‘business solution’ to customers with their extensive Aftersales service. During the show, Isuzu demonstrates the exclusive Isuzu Vehicle Health Report, Fleet Programs, Parts Support and Eco-Drive Trainings to convey that customer journey with Isuzu does not end on vehicle purchase. The continuous partnership between Isuzu Philippines Corporation, Isuzu dealers and customers lasts all throughout the customer’s life-time journey with Isuzu products.

Isuzu Philippines on its 25th honors stakeholders, commits to sustainable enterprise

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Isuzu Philippines celebrated its 25th year in the country by honoring their stakeholders in a quarter century that saw their brand becoming a fixture in past decades’ nation building; and by declaring their commitment to environmentally and socially sustainable operations centered on the use of renewable energy sources. 

Press statement by Isuzu Philippines Corp., “Isuzu Philippines celebrates 25th inaugural anniversary with Road to Progress vision,” 21 July 2022:

July 21, 2022 – Isuzu Philippines Corporation (IPC) celebrated its 25th inaugural anniversary by announcing the company’s new “Road To Progress” vision.

Held at SMX Convention Center, Pasay, the event was well attended by shareholders, dealers, suppliers, banks, media, VIPs from industry association and IPC executives and employees.

IPC President Noboru Murakami thanked its shareholders, dealers and business partners who contributed to the success of IPC, “The main reason why IPC has attained these countless achievements throughout the years is because we have the unwavering support of each and every one of you.”, said President Murakami.

From left to right: IPC Executive Vice President – Shojiro Sakoda, IPC President – Noboru Murakami, House of Investment Senior Vice President and Car Business Operations Head – Johnny Fetalvero and AC Motors Automobile Group President – Antonio “Toti” Zara III

Isuzu Philippines also received congratulatory messages from representatives from shareholders, Mr. Koji Nakamura – Isuzu Motors Ltd. Executive Officer, Mr. Kyoya Kondo – Mitsubishi Corporation’s Division COO, Mr. Antonio “Toti” Zara III – AC Motors Automobile Group President and Mr. Johnny Fetalvero – House of Investment Senior Vice President and Car Business Operations Head.

In the anniversary video shown during the program, former IPC employees from different divisions – Myrna Valle (Administration), Arnel Deunida (Manufacturing), Joseph Bautista (Sales & Marketing), Edward De Guzman (Aftersales) and Arthur Balmadrid (SVP), all of whom are pioneers, also shared their significant Isuzu experiences at the time IPC was just starting up. The video conveyed that the values instilled by the pioneers are now serving as one of the pillars of foundation of the current employees in attaining new achievements in the years to come.

Apart from celebrating the past 25 years of success, IPC also shared the company’s plans on adhering to the sustainable development goals through their new vision: Road To Progress, which is going to be the underlying motive of their business activities and goals moving forward.

According to the presentation of IPC President Murakami, the Road To Progress vision aims to realign IPC’s business process through a new perspective focusing on environment, social and governance aspect. One of the steps IPC takes in protecting the environment is shifting its energy source from coal power plant to renewable sources like solar power plant to decrease carbon emission of its manufacturing plant. IPC is also encouraging its dealers to follow its lead in switching to renewable energy in the next years, envisioning lower carbon footprint for the entire Isuzu dealer network.

Through IPC’s new vision, they take their tagline “Your Responsible Partner” to a new level. It goes beyond providing durable, fuel-efficient, and environment-friendly products to give the best transport and business solutions to Filipinos. Being a responsible partner is forging a new path to a more sustainable and greener future.

Visit Isuzu Philippine’s official website at www.isuzuphil.com and follow their Facebook page at www.facebook.com/IsuzuPhilippines. to be the first to know the latest news and updates from the brand.

Isuzu Traviz hits 10,000-unit mark

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Isuzu’s Traviz light truck has reached its 10,000-unit sales milestone after racking up average volumes of 3,876 units a year and 322 per month since the novel light truck model was first introduced here in November 2019. (Not a surprise after we spotted the Traviz as Isuzu’s genius swing at both new and old markets–see https://rwdph.com/2021/06/10/the-traviz-isuzus-genius-move-into-new-and-old-markets/.)

Press Statement by Isuzu Philippines Corporation, “isuzu PH celebrates Traviz 10,000-sales milestone,” 17 June 2022:

Isuzu Philippines Corporation (IPC) announces its latest sales milestone, the 10,000-unit sales for the Isuzu TRAVIZ lightweight truck, achieved this June. Launched towards the end of 2019, the Isuzu TRAVIZ quickly became a popular choice for business owners nationwide, as it provides the best solution for their last mile delivery operations.

Cornering 32% of the Cab & Chassis market on May 2022, the TRAVIZ highlights the brand’s well-known reputation for durability & reliability, while also meeting customer’s need for big cargo capacity and fuel efficiency on top of its modern & ergonomic cabin design – making this truck perfect for large scale corporation and MSMEs alike.

TRAVIZ AS BEST ‘BUSINESS SOLUTION’

Like thousands of Isuzu customers nationwide, the TRAVIZ caught the heart of business executive Sherrie Mae Pag-Ong, Purchasing Head of Microserver-8 Enterprises. “Our business operates both in NCR and Mindanao region and the TRAVIZ has been our choice of truck due its big cargo capacity, easy serviceability and nationwide parts availability. In our line of business, our vehicle uptime is very important, and with the TRAVIZ, we can be assured of its reliability on the road and durability that the truck will last a long time,” she said.

Mircroserver-8 Enterprises, which is one of the emerging office equipment and computer accessory supplier in the south, was given a special award by IPC for being its 10,000th customer for the TRAVIZ.  Held at Isuzu Manila, IPC’s new President Noboru Murakami, Asst. Sales Division Head, Hiroto Nakaguro, Asst. Division Head for Sales Robert Carlos, Department Head Mario Ojales, together with YGC’s Business Operations Head, Johnny Fetalvero and Isuzu Manila Branch Head Art Silvestre were all present to award additional P10,000 Cash and P10,000 worth of Parts & Service to Microserver-8 Enterprises.

“We are very happy to be recognized as the 10,000th customer for the Isuzu TRAVIZ. We have been using this truck since 2021 and have been receiving very good feedback from our drivers nationwide – the TRAVIZ is truly one of best profit partner,” said Pag-Ong.

Confident with the TRAVIZ’s exceptional capabilities, IPC President Murakami highlights the relevance and advantages of the truck to its customers, “Now that we are facing an all-time high on fuel prices, the TRAVIZ provides a viable solution, proven to be fuel efficient, the TRAVIZ can run more than 1,000 kilometers in just one full tank based on our recent fuel economy drive. It also can carry more cargo with its 1,660kgs payload capacity that would lessen your trips in operation,” he said.

TRAVIZ 10,000 THANK YOU PROMO

On top of awarding its 10,000th customer, IPC also announced a series of promotions for existing and potential TRAVIZ customers.

From June 10 to August 31, IPC will be giving away 10,000 liters worth of fuel for raffle to 500 customers nationwide who will purchase or reserve a TRAVIZ unit.

Both existing and potential customers will receive additional P10,000 cash referral bonus on top of the existing P10,000 referral fee that the company already offers.

Existing customers are also entitled to avail of the following Parts & Service discount:

  • 10% discount on Labor for Any Periodic Maintenance Service (PMS) and/or general job only
  • 10% discount on Parts for Any Periodic Maintenance Service (PMS) and/or general job only
  • Free 1-liter Isuzu Genuine Motor Oil XTRM

All of these promotions and cash bonus can be availed at any authorized Isuzu dealer, branch and satellite nationwide. For full promo mechanics, customers may log-on to www.isuzuphil.com or follow Isuzu’s official Facebook page for more information.

Isuzu Philippines’ Hajime Koso turns over reigns to Noboru Murakami

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Isuzu Philippines Corporation (IPC) president Hajime Koso has handed over the reigns to new IPC top executive Noboru Murakami. Widely known for his excellent humor and bonhomie, Hajime Koso is their longest serving president, his 7 years with IPC seeing him steer the company through the challenges and the wins of this latest third of Isuzu’s 22 years as the country’s top truck brand.

IPC outgoing president Hajime Koso and IPC president Noboru Murakami

At the turnover ceremony held yesterday at the Okada Manila in Pasay City, Koso said: “It’s been an honor working for Isuzu Philippines for the past seven years. I truly admire the dedication and resilience of the Filipino people, especially our team members in IPC. The last two years has been the most challenging, but we emerged to be stronger with the support of everyone in IPC including our business partners, to which I am truly grateful for.”

Koso leaves IPC for a new posting with Isuzu global management in Japan.

Outgoing IPC president Hajime Koso takes the podium at the presidential turnover ceremony

New IPC president Noboru Murakami’s last position before his appointment here was as general manager for mother company Isuzu Motors Limited (IML). He started with IML in 1995, focused initially on international sales, subsequently did corporate planning for eight years from 2003 to 2011, and then joined Isuzu North America where he eventually served as President and CEO from 2018 to 2020. His stint back in Japan during the height of the pandemic’s disruptions was as IML general manager for international sales.

During the turnover ceremony, Murakami acknowledged Koso’s accomplishments, admitting that he has big shoes to fill, and expressed his commitment to holding IPC’s lead in a market that they forecast as showing major growth in the commercial vehicle (CV) and light commercial vehicle (LCV) segments.

Murakami said: “Being on top puts more challenge to us, we cannot be complacent with what we currently offer. As always, our key is to listen to our customers, if there is anything to improve it has to be aligned with our customer’s needs and business requirements. Satisfying these needs at every touchpoints, whether for sales or aftersales will pave our way towards achieving ultimate ‘Customer Success’.”

Murakami also asserted that sustainability is the way forward for IPC.  In celebration of its 25th anniversary, IPC is working to get onto an eco-friendly sustainable track.

“As the number one truck brand, we have an even bigger responsibility to the society. For IPC, sustainability is no longer a choice but rather our way forward. We understand that as a social obligation, our company must put priority into protecting the environment without compromising customer success, if we want to continue doing business in the future,” said Murakami.

He explained that the new direction will manifest in their products and services as well as in their mindset: “This movement should not only be reflected in our products but also from within, meaning changes in our values, operations, and the way we do business moving forward. This is something that we want to instil in our team members and dealer network starting this year, a shift in mindset and priority towards a ‘Greener’ era for IPC.” 

Left to right: IPC vice president for sales Yasuhiko Oyama, IPC executive vice-president Shojiro Sakoda, IPC president Noboru Murakami, IPC outgoing president Hajime Koso, and IPC assistant division head for sales Robert Carlos

In their official statement for the presidential turnover, IPC explained that sustainability is integral to their goal of creating an “Isuzu Kingdom” built with their best business solutions, excellent after-sales service, and active efforts to safeguard the welfare of society and the environment.