Category: News releases

Fortune Electricar now Kaiyi Auto exclusive Philippine distributor

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Kaiyi Auto’s expansion into global markets, particularly in Russia, the Middle East, Africa and Southeast Asia now brings it to the Philippines, naming Fortune Electricars as their exclusive distributor for the country. First established as a subsidiary of Chery Automobile Co., Ltd. of China in 2014, Kaiyi relates to its parent organization as a manufacturer of more economical models featuring electric, hybrid as well as conventional combustion engine powertrains.

Fortune Electricars’  Kaiyi lineup includes: the E-Qute 04 compact hatchback EV with 300km range listed at P0.868M and with 400km range for P0.958M, the E5 mid-sized sedan with turbocharged 1.5 liter engine listed at P0.958M, the X3 Pro sub-compact SUV for P0.968M, and the X7 plug-in hybrid 7-seat SUV with a base price of P1.499M.

Press Statement by Fortune Electricars Philippines Corporation, “Fortune Electricars Appointed as Exclusive Distributor of Kaiyi Auto in the Philippines,” 15 April 2025:

Manila, Philippines – Fortune Electricars Philippines Corporation (FEPC) has been officially appointed by Yibin Kaiyi International Trade Co., Ltd. as the exclusive distributor of Kaiyi Auto in the Philippines. This partnership marks a significant milestone in expanding Kaiyi Auto’s global footprint and brings a new wave of innovation to the local automotive market.

Established in 2014 as a subsidiary of Chery Automobile Co., Ltd., Kaiyi Auto is a forward-thinking automotive brand based in Yibin, Sichuan Province, China. The company manufactures sedans, SUVs, and MPVs, offering both internal combustion engine (ICE) and new energy vehicles (NEVs). With an annual production capacity of 150,000 units, Kaiyi is committed to delivering smart, sustainable, and stylish mobility solutions worldwide.

Bringing a Fresh Lineup to the Philippine Market

FEPC is launching a diverse lineup of Kaiyi vehicles designed to meet the evolving needs of Filipino drivers:

  • E5 – A mid-sized sedan with a 1.5-liter turbocharged gasoline engine, combining sleek design with comfort and advanced convenience features.
  • X3 Pro – A bold and modern subcompact SUV equipped with a high-resolution touchscreen and smart safety technology—ideal for both city and highway driving.
  • E-Qute 04 – A compact battery electric vehicle (BEV) crafted for urban mobility. It features an impressive 410 km range, making it the longest-range EV under ₱1 million in the Philippines.
  • X7 PHEV SUV – A seven-seater plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) sports utility vehicle (SUV) with a combined range of 1,200 kilometers. With a starting price of ₱1,499,999, it offers a perfect balance of power, efficiency, and value.

Where to Find Kaiyi Vehicles

Kaiyi Auto vehicles are currently available for viewing at the Kaiyi Auto Philippines showroom in Carkitz Parañaque, located at 89 Ninoy Aquino Avenue, Parañaque City and Kaiyi Auto Bulacan, located at the Focus City Center Building, Narra Road, Tambubong, Bocaue, Bulacan.

Interested in becoming a Kaiyi Auto dealer?

FEPC is actively expanding its dealer network nationwide. To explore dealership opportunities, please contact the team at marketing@kaiyi.com.ph or visit www.kaiyi.com.ph.

Follow us on social media for the latest updates @kaiyiautoph.

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.

Caltex Rewards promo raffles off Ford Ranger Sport pickups

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For Caltex filling station purchases from April 18 to July 17 nationwide, the brand’s loyalty program participants will get the chance to win one of three Ford Ranger Sport pickups or be among 400 winners of 250,000 Caltex Rewards points. Every accumulated PHP500 spending increment until July 17 gives each participant a raffle entry for draws on May 31 for 200 rewards points prizes and on July 21 for another batch of 200 rewards points prizes and for the 3 Ford pickup grand prizes.

Press statement of Chevron Philippines, Inc., “Three Ford Ranger Sport Up for Grabs with Caltex Pickup Your Rewards Promo,” 17 May 2023:

Manila, Philippines, May 17, 2023—Caltex, marketed by Chevron Philippines Inc. (CPI), rolls out its first national promo for this year with Caltex Pickup Your Rewards. From April 18, 2023 until July 17, 2023, every accumulated Php500 spend on any Caltex fuels, automatically qualifies Caltex Rewards members for a raffle entry.

Customers can win a Ford Ranger Sport and/or 250,000 Caltex Rewards points when they gas up at any participating Caltex stations nationwide. 

Three winners will get to take home a brand new Ford Ranger Sport while 400 winners will win 250,000 Caltex Rewards points.

“We are very excited to offer our first national promo this year, Caltex Pickup Your Rewards with amazing prizes for Caltex Rewards members. With this promo, customers can earn regular Caltex Rewards points at the same time they can also get a chance to win a Ford Ranger Sport. At Caltex, we’re continuously finding ways to make our customers’ journey a safe and rewarding one,” said CPI Country Chairman, Billy Liu.

All entries received from April 18 to May 25 can get the chance to be one of the 200 lucky winners of 250,000 Caltex Rewards points on the first draw. Non-winning entries in the first draw will still get a chance to win 250,000 Caltex Rewards points in the second draw and all entries have a chance to win a Ford Ranger Sport. One winner from Metro Manila, one winner from the rest of Luzon, and one winner from Visayas/Mindanao will be picked for the major prize. A customer has a chance to win 1 (one) minor prize and one (1) major prize.  

Raffle Draw DateCut off for Raffle DrawType of Prize to be DrawnCount of Raffle PrizesPrizes
May 31, 2023,
2:00 PM		All entries from April 18 to May 25Minor Prizes200 winners250,000 Caltex Rewards Points
July 21, 2023,
2:00 PM		All entries from April 18 to July 17Minor Prizes200 winners250,000 Caltex Rewards Points
July 21, 2023,
2:00 PM		All entries from April 18 to July 17Major Prizes3 winners2023 Ford Ranger Sport 2.0L Turbo Diesel 6-Speed Automatic 4×2

Caltex Rewards registered members are those who have verified their mobile number and email. Fuel up now at any participating Caltex stations with Caltex Rewards to join. Not yet a Caltex Rewards member? Download CaltexGo app thru Google Play or the App Store or simply register via www.caltex.com/ph/caltex-rewards. To know more about this promotion, visit www.caltex.com/ph/pickupyourrewards. 

Per DTI Fair Trade Permit No. FTEB-163966, Series of 2023

Volvo Group rolls out mobile app for EV accident first responders

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Acknowledging the new dangers of electric vehicle accidents–particularly on carriers hauling heavy combustible cargo while also facing the risk of runaway electrical fires–global truckmaker Volvo has rolled out a mobile app to ensure situational awareness among EV accident responders. The new app provides real-time situational info and guidance on active accident scenes, reinforcing compliance to new safety procedures even among veteran response crews.

Press Statement by the Volvo Group, “Volvo Group launches world’s first electric truck safety app with AR technology for first responders,” 16 May 2023:

Building on its long heritage of safety innovations, Volvo Group is the first truck manufacturer to launch an Augmented Reality (AR) safety app for electric trucks, designed specifically to support first responders in an emergency. The app is developed to deliver instant, valuable information from the electric truck to the emergency services team arriving on the scene to guide them in real-time and ensure safe rescue conditions.

Electric trucks will change the world, not only in terms of making transportation more sustainable, but also in how we drive and interact with the trucks themselves. The technology involved – specifically the high-voltage systems capable of powering a heavy electric truck – is also changing how we regard emergency response, as it requires its own set of new safety parameters and routines.

“Volvo Group’s overall ambition is to deliver 100 percent safe products. We are proud to be at the forefront of the electric truck revolution with high-performing solutions, but we also recognize the importance of ensuring the safety of first responders who are called to an emergency should an incident with an electric vehicle occur,” says Lars Stenqvist, Chief Technology Officer Volvo Group. “The new AR app is a powerful tool that can support the emergency services to quickly and safely secure the site, while minimizing the risk of injury to themselves and others.”

The Emergency Response Guide app, now available for download free of charge from the Android and the Apple stores, provides safety information for all Volvo Group heavy electric truck brands, including Volvo Trucks, Renault Trucks and Mack Trucks. For Mack electric trucks, the AR features will be added during June 2023.   

By using a combination of connectivity, camera, sensors, 3D modeling, and augmented reality overlays, the safety app can provide first responders with a detailed view of the vehicle. It offers information on the location of high-voltage cables, battery packs, and other key components as well as step-by-step instructions on how to safely shut down the electric vehicle’s power supply in case of an emergency.

The safety app has been developed by a team of experts at Volvo Group’s Research & Development facilities in Sweden, France, and the United States. Apart from augmented reality information and 3D models, the app also contains all safety documentation relating to the electric truck, which will be accessible to the app user once the truck is identified.

“The safety app has been tested in a variety of real-world scenarios and has received positive feedback from first responders who have tried it in the field,” says Vincent Barnoux, AR Expert & Business Solution Engineer at Volvo Group.

Volvo Group is committed to promoting the safe and responsible use of electric vehicles and the development of this app is just one example of the company’s ongoing efforts in this area. The Volvo Group is investing heavily in the development of electric vehicle technology and offers a wide range of electric solutions for commercial use.

The new Emergency Response Guide app is available for download from the Apple App Store and Google Play. 

  • Link to Apple App Store (https://apps.apple.com/us/app/emergency-response-guides/id6446833694)
  • Link to Google Play (https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.Volvo.EmergencyResponderGuide&hl=en_GB&gl=USX)

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.

Ride hailer Move It pioneers advertising vests

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Motorcycle ride-hailing service Move It has expanded their business model to offer their rider-partners opportunities to earn from transit advertising.  With their pioneering advertiser vests program, additional revenue streams may be tapped for Move It riders while offering advertisers the ubiquitous and pervasive market reach of wearable ads. 

Press Statement by Move It Philippines, “MOVE IT launches industry-first Advertiser Vest Program, reaffirms its commitment to rider-partners’ economic empowerment–The motorcycle taxi company introduces a new alternative income stream for its rider-partners,” 28 April 2023:

MANILA, PHILIPPINES, 28 April 2023 – In commemoration of the International Labor Day, motorcycle taxi company MOVE IT is doubling down on its commitment to offering viable livelihood opportunities to its rider-partners. To further ensure they are equipped with additional earning opportunities, MOVE IT is introducing the Advertiser Vests Program – an industry-first alternative income stream allowing rider-partners to earn additional income from advertising campaign materials on their safety vests. This program is additive to the existing earning opportunities provided to MOVE IT rider-partners such as in-app bookings and post-service tipping.

“MOVE IT is deeply committed to creating a better life for our rider-partners and their families, and key to that is ensuring that our rider-partners earn a decent and viable living from our platform. By providing them access to various income opportunities, we are optimistic that they can earn more, and succeed in their pursuits. As we offer to commuters a motorcycle-hailing service that is safe, honest, and affordable, we also remain determined to help our rider-partners and their families achieve financial security and stability,” says MOVE IT General Manager Wayne Jacinto.

Through its Advertiser Vest Program, MOVE IT is offering its rider-partners additional earning opportunities to maximize their income. This further demonstrates the motorcycle taxi company’s undivided commitment to providing its rider-partners with accessible, above-par livelihood solutions.

As MOVE IT offers this mobile ad channel to brand partners, it is also taking charge of the production, management, and deployment of the vest ads. Select rider-partners will be issued with the campaign materials for a hassle-free onboarding. Earnings of rider-partners will vary depending on the period of the ad campaign.

A Commitment to the Riders’ Livelihood

MOVE IT ensures that the earning capability of its rider-partners remains at an optimum as it offers guaranteed affordable  fare pricing and a passenger post-service tipping feature. MOVE IT’s solid commitment to the livelihood and welfare of its rider-partners is manifested in the income opportunities, bonus scheme, and insurance packages the company offers them. In a study from the International Labor Organization, approximately 53% of Filipinos are informal workers, so it’s vital to ensure that they have access to viable livelihood opportunities, similar to what is offered by MOVE IT.

MOVE IT implements low commission rates, allowing its rider-partners to take home high net earnings. Furthermore, the post-service tipping mechanism on the app gives riders additional earnings from satisfied passengers. 

The motorcycle taxi company also has its own incentives system that financially rewards rider-partners based on several factors, which include passenger rating and total bookings accomplished. And in any event that a MOVE IT rider-partner meets an untoward incident on the road, they can make claims for benefits and financial assistance as they are equipped with insurance packages.

Lastly, MOVE IT works closely with various brand partners to provide its rider-partners exclusive deals to motorcycle parts and accessories, fuel, maintenance, medicines, and even end-to-end registration packages. Among the brands that MOVE IT works with are Shell, Caltex, Mobil, Tyremart Inc., and Generika.

MOVE IT is also intensifying efforts to attract more rider-partners into its platform as it seeks to serve more Filipino commuters and support the Philippine government in its goal of improving the state of the transport industry in the country, and creating viable livelihood opportunities – at scale, for Filipinos.

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.

Motorcycle ride-hailer Move It affirms stand on fair service in face of notorious traffic congestion

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Motorcycle ride hailing service Move It has asserted their commitment to safe and affordable rides, guaranteeing cheaper fares versus competitors, assuring that driver tips be rewards instead of motivators for accepting a fare, and offering similar but legitimagte alternatives to habal-habal gipsy riders.

Press Statement by Move It Philppines, “MOVE IT firms up commitment to safety, affordable pricing, and fare transparency amid traffic woes in Metro Manila–On April Fool’s Day, two-wheel ride-hailing service MOVE IT made no jokes in its manifesto as it underscored the challenging commute situation in the capital and the solutions it offers,” 5 April 2023:

Manila, Philippines, 05 April 2023 – Metro Manila’s traffic congestion is no joke. In the TomTom Traffic Index 2022, Manila alone ranked ninth in the list of cities with the worst traffic congestions in the world[1]. Understanding that Filipino passengers deserve better, motorcycle taxi provider MOVE IT firms up its manifesto which is centered on alleviating commuter woes and the company’s commitment to providing safe, affordable, and honest rides.

On April Fool’s Day, as hundreds of brands amplified pranks and comical posts, MOVE IT deployed a no-joke roving billboard to publicly declare its commitment to safety, affordable pricing, and fare transparency. Among the commitments stated in the the MOVE IT #DiskartengTapat Manifesto are:

MOVE IT guarantees cheaper fares over competitors on a per-kilometer basis. With its ‘Mas Mura Rides Guarantee’ program, eligible passengers may even file for fare reimbursement in the form of a voucher should they find lower fare-per-km rates from MOVE IT’s list of approved competitors.

In its manifesto, MOVE IT also reiterated that it strictly abides by the two-wheel fare matrix set by the Motorcycle Taxi Technical Working Group (TWG). Passengers can easily cross check their fares vis a vis the kilometer reading seen in the ride receipts issued by MOVE IT.

MOVE IT passengers do not need to tip just to get a ride. The tipping feature on MOVE IT is made available to the passenger after the service has been rendered, hence removing the possibility of ride bidding.

With MOVE IT, habal-habal is legal. Passengers may approach any parked MOVE IT driver and ask them to book the ride. The MOVE IT driver then inputs details of the passenger on the driver app to make the booking official. By engaging with MOVE IT drivers for legal habal-habal, passengers are assured of road safety as they gain access to MOVE IT’s ride insurance and location tracking. For passengers booking a ride using the MOVE IT app, they can send their location and trip to their loved ones as they travel.

MOVE IT Philippines General Manager Wayne Jacinto shares: “Filipinos deserve to have access to more mobility options that they can trust and rely on as they brave the daily commute situation in the metro. Commuting shouldn’t be difficult and taxing for our kababayans who need to be on the road for work, school, or even leisure. Amid the challenges in public transportation, MOVE IT fully commits to offering mobility that is safe, honest, and affordable Para sa Pasaherong Panalo.”

[1] *According to a study by TomTom Traffic Index: https://www.tomtom.com/traffic-index/ranking/

 

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.

Honda reaches out with road safety training, hands-on Honda-SENSING driving for AIESEC-member students

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As a step towards the brand’s declared global goal of of zero traffic collision fatalities by 2050, Honda’s Philippines has given 24 students from 8 AIESEC-member schools classroom and practical driving instruction at their Honda Safety Driving in Paranaque City.  Lessons were reinforced with guided drives on Honda SENSING-equipped models such as their CIvic sedan and their HR-V and BR-V SUVs.   

Press Statement by Honda Cars Philippines, Inc., “Honda Cars continues with road safety program for the youth,” 17 March 2023:

Honda Cars Philippines, Inc. (HCPI) sustains efforts to contribute to better road safety, most recently through another round of interactive learning sessions for college students, still in partnership with the international organization of student youth leaders, AIESEC in the Philippines (AIESEC). On March 11, 2023, there were 24 students from eight (8) member schools of AIESEC who participated in HCPI’s training program where classroom instruction on safe driving behavior was reinforced with a guided experiential drive of Honda SENSING–equipped models such as the All-New BR-V, Civic and HR-V.

Inspired by Honda’s global target of zero traffic collision fatalities by 2050, HCPI organizes educational programs on road safety for its different stakeholders such as the youth to strengthen their consciousness and appreciation for road safety. The demonstration of Honda SENSING through an experiential drive proved effective in understanding how technology is applied in protecting the safety of the driver, passengers, as well as pedestrians, and other road users. Honda has been reinforcing its vehicles with the Honda SENSING suite of safety features to realize the dream of “Safety for Everyone.”

The learning sessions covered the correct mindset towards driving, facilitated by professional instructors from the Honda Safety Driving Center. Pre-drive inspection, traffic rules and regulations, and common misconceptions about driving were also discussed.  During the Honda SENSING actual driving exercises, the students were guided by HCPI’s technical experts and certified driving instructors. The participants were highly engaged as they got a first-hand experience with Honda’s advanced driver-assist system using vehicles equipped with Honda SENSING, such as the Civic, All-New HR-V, and All-New BR-V 1.5 VX CVT.

HCPI President, Mr. Masahiko Nakamura expressed his appreciation for the students who are youth leaders in their respective colleges and universities. “It is my pleasure to be with you who are very passionate about creating good change for society. This program is designed to strengthen our consciousness about how our own actions can help reduce road accidents, and how we can influence other road users to also improve their driving habits. When you apply what you learn, and share them in your schools, with your active support, we can create more meaningful change and impact more people.”

The participants, with their President Mr. Sajana Vithanawasam, also expressed their gratitude to Honda “AIESEC in the Philippines is sincerely honored to partner with Honda in this road safety program. We appreciate Honda’s efforts on sustainability and this initiative to help us become better road users.”

HCPI has been conducting educational campaigns on road safety for the youth since 2004 through its program, Teen Smart. The purpose then remains relevant today – to develop the youth’s consciousness of road safety and strengthen the sense of responsibility in reducing road accidents as pedestrians and future drivers. HCPI has engaged with different partners from the government and civil society to reach more youth who are among the most vulnerable in road accidents. Even during the pandemic, HCPI has continued with this effort online.

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