Suzuki mounts 4th leg of online road show featuring newly launched Vitara top-spec AWD variant

May 28, 2021 Gelzon de la Cruz

Suzuki Philippines, the country’s big brand in small cars, continues the Suzuki Auto Festival Virtual Roadshow with a 4th leg of the online event happening this weekend from Saturday to Sunday, May 29 to 30, 2021.

Unlike prior instances of this road show, this weekend’s will feature new content on the the top-spec Vitara variant with AllGrip Select adaptive AWD driveline that they launched only today.

Like previous editions of the online road show, each day this weekend will feature shows streamed on Facebook Live at 11:00AM, 3:00PM and 6:00PM with an additional safety seminar for children showing at 1:30PM.

Press Statement by Suzuki Philippines Inc. (SPH), “Suzuki set to launch 4th leg of its Auto Fest Virtual Roadshow,” 2021:

May 25, 2021 – Suzuki Philippines Incorporated (SPH), the country’s pioneer compact car distributor, keeps its wheels rolling as it announces final dates for the return of the popular Suzuki Auto Festival Virtual Roadshow. Not quite in position to take the show on the road just yet, due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic and current vaccination efforts in the country, SPH plans to continue with the 4th leg of its illustrious event online, this coming May 29-30, 2021.

Suzuki’s original contingency plan has turned out to be a surprise success, with loyal customers, patrons and now, even new members of the Suzuki community raving about the offerings, games, and promos shelved out during the first three legs of the festival – all previously held live on Suzuki Philippines’’ Facebook page last September 19-20 and November 21-22 of last year, and most recently just last month on the 24th and 25th of April.

“As much as we, in the Suzuki family, would like to once again experience the interaction and human element that the Suzuki Auto Festival has been known for in previous years; our top priority in the midst of this current pandemic is everyone’s continued safety,” Mr. Keiichi Suzuki, General Manager and Vice President of Suzuki Auto Philippines shares, “Thank you to our loyal customers that continue to support us amidst these trying times and continue to Champion the Suzuki Way of Life!”

Show schedules for the upcoming event will follow that of its most recent leg, with various Suzuki showcases and demonstrations scheduled at 11:00am, 3:00pm, 6:00pm, and a Kids’ Scout Safety seminar at 1:30pm.

Participants joining the 4th leg of this virtual event can look forward to Suzuki offering exclusive promotions as well, only offered during the 2-day Virtual Festival. “Join us again, this time around, and see for yourself what Suzuki has up its sleeves for everyone to enjoy!” shares Mr. Keiichi Suzuki.

Break’s over: Toyota racing school is back for Vios Cup 2021 season

May 24, 2021 Gelzon de la Cruz

After a temporary halt in operations during the height of quarantine lockdown interruptions last year, the Toyota Racing School is back in business–this time as Toyota Gazoo Racing Academy Philippines and with dedicated 1:1 student-vehicle assignments. The reopening of the racing school is a precursor to Toyota resuming their Vios Cup one-make-race series this year.

Press Statement of Toyota Motors Philippines (TMP), “TOYOTA GAZOO Racing Academy PH is back in session, revs up for this year’s Vios Cup,” 2021:

The-TOYOTA-GAZOO-Racing-Aca — *The TOYOTA GAZOO Racing Academy teaches the country’s aspiring racers and future professionals basic and advanced skills.*

Manila, Philippines l May 24, 2021–Leading mobility company and motorsport supporter Toyota Motor Philippines (TMP) kicked off this year’s racing season with the reopening of the TOYOTA GAZOO Racing Academy Philippines (TGR Academy). With the goal of promoting the love for motorsport and continuously developing globally competitive Filipino racers , the academy welcomed a new set of drivers along with familiar faces in the racing industry.

Formerly known as the Toyota Racing School, the TGR Academy brings together motorsports enthusiasts in the country to jumpstart their journey in the exciting world of motorsports. The team of mentors and instructors is comprised of tenured racing trainers from the country with at least 10 years of experience on the track and former champions of the Toyota Vios Cup in the Philippines.

After a hiatus last year in compliance with public safety regulations, classes reopened starting with the Level 1: Basic Circuit Car Class, where future racers learn the basic skills and essential safety rules needed to properly drive a race car around the track. This class also tackles threshold braking, downshifting, racing line and track lapping. The theory lecture was conducted through a virtual webinar and supplemented by an on-ground training at the Clark International Speedway (CIS). The Level 2: Advance Circuit Class teaches racers eyeing a position on the podium of the upcoming Toyota Vios Cup 2021.

“We’ve had a year of break because of the pandemic, but we’re back and it’s going to be a very exciting season this year. We’ve got new drivers training already with us. So, we’re looking at about 30 cars on the grid at the [start of] season this year,” shared JP Tuason, TGR Academy instructor.

Reformatted racing school program

Unlike previous racing school classes, this year’s class no longer allows students to share the vehicle with other participants to ensure the health and safety of each racer. Registrations were done online and some parts of the race class were conducted through video conferencing. Students and staff were tested upon entering the circuit at CIS. A dedicated time slot for each batch of students was strictly followed and driving instructions were conducted through two-way radios. All equipment and vehicles were disinfected before every use.

Toyota-racing-school-1 — *Motorsports enthusiasts get to feel the thrill behind the wheel at the Clark International Speedway.*

“We’re really interested and we looked forward to this day when we can return to the track once again,” shares racing phenomenon Iñigo Anton, who participated in the Level 1 and Level 2 classes.

Working with the official One-Make-Race build of the Toyota Vios, the Level 2 students will be armed with advanced techniques and skills to make their way to the finish line. Students got the chance to have the feel of the competition through a mock race in the Level 2 race class.

Anton added, “Even though I’ve been racing for a long time, I still learn here. The classes and learnings made me a smoother and faster driver. It’s such a good program and hopefully, those people who are interested to join in racing, in general, would explore the program and start their journey here. It really teaches one all the things to know from being a beginner racer and as one progresses to the next level in racing.”

Inigo-Anton-gears-up-for-th — *Iñigo Anton gears up for this year’s TOYOTA GAZOO Racing Vios Cup.*

Aleksa Meily, a racing neophyte also shared, “I enrolled in the TOYOTA GAZOO Racing Academy because I want to put my foot in the door in the world of racing. I was very inspired after watching Formula 1, and I thought why don’t I try it, instead of just watching in front of the screen.”

The TGR Academy is a great stepping stone for anyone interested in joining the TOYOTA GAZOO Racing Vios Cup, which is slated to be back this July. This season, TMP will introduce a new batch of racers as well and is bringing back the Super Sporting class, which will be joined by the country’s seasoned racers.

This year’s TOYOTA GAZOO Racing Vios Cup will be held in cooperation with Bridgestone, official fuel partner Petron, and supported by Motul. Other sponsors are ROTA, Brembo, Denso, AVT, 3M, Tuason Racing, and OMP. The TGR Academy will continue to serve as a starting point for Filipinos who wish to follow their racing ambitions or those who simply want to improve their driving and handling skills on the tracks. Watch out for TMP’s announcements on the next sessions of the TGR Academy.

Follow TMP’s official pages – Toyota Motor Philippines on Facebook and Instagram, toyota.com.ph, Twitter (ToyotaMotorPH), and Viber (Toyota PH) – for regular updates on products and services, dealer operations, announcements and events. Follow Toyota Gazoo Racing PH on Facebook and Instagram for motorsports-related news and updates.

Suzuki 2021 car sales grow at almost twice the rate of entire industry

May 22, 2021 Gelzon de la Cruz

Suzuki Philippines, Inc. (SPH), the country’s big name in small cars, reports industry-leading growth in January to April 2021 sales. In their official statement on this year’s sales so far, Suzuki cites data from the Chamber of Automotive Manufacturers of the Philippines, Inc. (CAMPI) that puts total automotive industry sales for the first four months of 2021 at 95,197 units, representing a 34 percent increase in volume from the same period last year. This, they contrast with the 6,390 units they sold in the first four months of 2021 compared to their 3,789 units for the same period last year–Suzuki’s resulting 65 percent growth is almost double that of CAMPI’s measurement for the entire industry.

Suzuki further reports that their 1,695 unit sales for this April ranks them third among automakers for the month and fourth for year-to-date sales. They report their key sales drivers as the following:

1,544 units sold for the Ertiga three-row MPV with SRPs at P0.738 to P0.998M
1,204 units sold for the S-Presso mini-crossover with SRP at P0.573M each
1,177 units sold for the Carry light truck platform with SRP at P0.529 to P0.644M

The 3,925 total units sold among these key models represent 61 percent of their January to April 2021 sales.

And, there’s also them driving themselves. SPH vice president and general manager for automobile division Keiichi Suzuki says: “Despite the challenging situation, this continuous achievement that Suzuki has been reaping now is a testament of how we remain relentless in our goal to provide quality driving experience to the market. We will continue to thrive and reinforce our commitment to show more people what the Suzuki Way of Life is all about.”

In terms of process, Suzuki attributes their exceptional sales to below-the-line marketing efforts such as price and premiums promos, public engagement activations such as through their touring auto festival events, strong digital communications and other brand-pushing efforts online by Suzuki as well as by their individual dealers.

Isuzu Philippines formalizes agreement for soon to open 47th dealership, Isuzu Subic

May 21, 2021 Gelzon de la Cruz

Isuzu Philippines Corp. (IPC) has formalized their dealership agreement for Isuzu Subic with Velocity Motor Sales Corporation (VMSC). Located at the former marshalling yards across from Subic Bay Gateway industrial park, construction of the new storefront will be completed in a few months. Once operational, Isuzu Subic becomes the leading truck brand’s 47th dealership in the country, putting them within a stone’s throw of their goal with their “road to 50 dealerships” campaign.

The dealership agreement and eventual opening of Isuzu Subic come despite apparent difficulties caused by the current global health crisis. It’s been 22 months since they broke ground at Isuzu Subic’s site in 2019–the protracted period caused by the series of lockdowns for the global health crisis that started less than 8 months later in March 2020.

The determination to move forward with the new dealership in the face of the current health crisis is testament to Isuzu’s high regard for the Subic market. First communicated in the press statement for the groundbreaking event in 2019, IPC president Hajime Koso, now reiterates that, “Subic is primed to become the most competitive international services and logistic center in Southeast Asia, continuously leading to be one of the country’s major economic engines receiving numerous investment projects.”

Koso updated this observation in light of the global health crisis, saying: “Despite some unrealized revenue targets as a result of the pandemic, the city remains thriving especially its trading and shipment industries. Isuzu Subic is our response to the growing transportation requirements in Zambales most especially for trucks as IPC begun expansion so as to contribute to our customers’ success.”

In synch with Isuzu’s intentions, VMSC president Jason Hao put the current crisis in perspective, saying: “Velocity Motors will persevere and see to it that we will uphold Isuzu’s commitment to Filipinos here in Subic. Being in business for over 40 years, we have been witnesses to the cycles of industry and commerce in the region being in constant evolution, more so now in transition to the ‘new normal’. But we are in this for the long haul and believe that winners are tested and built through time.”

Press Statement by Isuzu Philippines Corp. (IPC), “IPC Officially Welcomes Velocity Motor Sales Corporation Through Historic Virtual Dealer Agreement Signing For Isuzu Subic,” 2021:

**Isuzu Philippines Corp.: (**L-R) Mr. Hajime Koso, President and Mr. Yasuhiko Oyama, VP Sales

**Velocity Motors Sales Corporation:** (L-R) Mr. Jeffrey Hao Lin, Director, and Mr. Jason Hao, President and Director

20 May 2021, Manila—Isuzu Philippines Corporation (IPC), today, led by its President, Mr. Hajime Koso, formally solidified its partnership with Isuzu Subic under Velocity Motors Sales Corporation. In view of the ongoing pandemic, both have mutually agreed to hold the contract signing ceremony virtually making it a first in the organization’s history.

“IPC officially welcomes Velocity Motors Sales Corporation to our growing network. As you may all know, we are on our “road to 50 dealerships” and today seals our 47th outlet nationwide. We have been wanting to further establish our presence in Zambales so thank you to Velocity Motors for partnering with us in capturing the market and being part of our expansion project. We are committed to continuously provide the best products and services in our new home in Subic, Koso says.

The aforementioned group, represented by Mr. Jason Hao, President and Director and Mr. Jeffrey Hao Lin, Director, is highly recognized for their expertise and achievements when it comes to trucks and bodybuilding in the northern coast of Central Luzon. “Isuzu is without a doubt the undisputed number one brand for trucks and equally successful in the SUV and Pickup segments. At Velocity Motors, we choose to invest only in the best and IPC is such in its circle of competence,” according to Hao. “Headed by Mr. Koso, we are confident that IPC will always choose the best balance of products and systems of operations for its clients, shareholders, and us dealers ensuring success for years to come.”

Isuzu Subic’s 3,799-sqm dealership will follow the Isuzu Outlet Standard (IOS) and include a display showroom, a customer mezzanine and parts warehouse. Although the main area already holds a 1,380-sqm service workshop that caters to both commercial and light commercial vehicles, there will also be a dedicated 1,518-sqm off-site space with a preparation bay and paint booth for body repairs in an effort to accommodate more vehicles, especially trucks, that require heavy-duty maintenance.

IPC was recently recognized by Isuzu Motors Limited in Japan for earning Triple Stars in the 2020 Aftersales Awards. Only four other distributors and dealers in the six regions around the globe was awarded the top rating. The company strives to sustain this feat in the coming years and Isuzu Subic’s extended facility and increased capacity is just one of several action plans being taken to provide more access to the brand’s highest quality of aftersales servicing and parts fulfillment in the country.

Isuzu-Subic-1 — *Rising soon at Block 3 Rizal Highway, Subic Gateway District, Subic Bay Freeport Zone, Zambales*

“Subic is primed to become the most competitive international services and logistic center in Southeast Asia, continuously leading to be one of the country’s major economic engines receiving numerous investment projects. Despite some unrealized revenue targets as a result of the pandemic, the city remains thriving especially its trading and shipment industries. Isuzu Subic is our response to the growing transportation requirements in Zambales most especially for trucks as IPC begun expansion so as to contribute to our customers’ success”, Koso added.

In parallel, Hao says, “Velocity Motors will persevere and see to it that we will uphold Isuzu’s commitment to Filipinos here in Subic. Being in business for over 40 years, we have been witnesses to the cycles of industry and commerce in the region being in constant evolution, more so now in transition to the ‘new normal’. But we are in this for the long haul and believe that winners are tested and built through time.”

Stay connected and be in the know of the latest from IPC by visiting our website and following our official Facebook page.

Toyota explains how dealer services remain uninterrupted during the public health crisis

May 14, 2021 Gelzon de la Cruz

In a public statement about their uninterrupted dealer services, Toyota Motors Philippines (TMP) cites Kaizen–the Japanese ethos for continuous improvement–as the impulse behind their swift adaptation to prevailing health crisis conditions.

TMP described how they continue to deliver key services in the following areas:

Easy-to-use online platforms for delivering safe convenient access–they explained how customers can do virtual visits via …

The MyToyota.ph website
TMP’s own online showroom
TMP dealers’ websites

Client-focused on-site services to meet changing customer needs–they enumerated flagship dealership Toyota Makati Inc.’s (TMI’s) best practices for providing uninterrupted on-site services …

Strict adherence to IATF health and safety protocols
Contact barriers, social distancing and a skeleton workforce
Walk-ins are accommodated but setting appointments for visits is encouraged

Providing safe, personal mobility–they affirmed how prevailing conditions compel them to sustain financial and after sales programs to keep delivering …

Toyota Financial Services’ low equity and low monthly payment plans
Affordable maintenance schemes

Guaranteed security and safety–they described how protection under their 3-year / 100,000km warranties and PMS schedules have been enhanced with pre-arranged vehicle-servicing house calls.

Service with a heart–they illustrated how prevailing conditions and a natural concern for customer needs compel them to push beyond typical scopes of work and, in one case, caused TMI to arrange delivery of a customer’s vehicle that had been stranded at the dealership by an untimely lockdown.

Press Statement by Toyota Motors Philippines (TMP), “Toyota dealerships remain ‘at your service’ amid the pandemic,” 2021:

Manila, Philippines | May 12, 2021–Kaizen, a Japanese term that means continuous improvement, is a Toyota philosophy that is innate to its entire network. This philosophy in mind is what keeps Toyota ready to quickly adapt to the changes brought about by the different quarantine protocols and shifting customer needs and buying behavior amid the COVID-19 pandemic.

Toyota Motor Philippines (TMP), the leading automotive company in the country, is taking a two-pronged approach to provide Filipinos with fast, reliable service while prioritizing safety for both customers and staff: While the company is accelerating its digital capabilities, on-site operations are enhanced to provide worry-free customer experience.

TMP-continued-services-1 — *Toyota Motor Philippines ensures to prioritize the safety of its clients and staff while delivering high-quality services through its onsite and online platforms.*

Easy-to-use online platforms deliver safe, convenient access

As more Filipinos embrace online in their daily activities and transactions, Toyota has been proactive in developing digital access and shopping tools. MyToyota.ph, the TMP and respective dealers’ websites, and TMP’s virtual showroom all help vehicle owners and buyers with their needs from the comfort of their homes.

MyToyota.ph, launched in May last year, lets users conveniently set appointments, choose a dealer, select the service they need, and even make special requests for specific car needs.

The virtual showroom enables customers to have a better appreciation of the products in detail in the safety of their homes. Besides a 3D virtual tour with a 360-degree view of the showroom, this platform lets visitors explore the interior and exterior of the vehicles with just one click. Exploring different cars has never been easier as this virtual showroom is open 24/7.

Client-focused on-site services meet changing customer needs

While Toyota’s online services not only bring the brand closer to the users but also supplements their dealership operations, Lee Junia, General Manager of Toyota Makati (TMI), the first Toyota dealership in the Philippines believes that the business of selling cars cannot be purely inanimate. He shares some of the best practices TMI adapted as they do business as usual.

ISO safety-compliant TMI implements IATF health and safety protocols across its dealership network. Aside from required wearing of face mask and face shield, no-touch temperature scanners and alcohol dispensers can also be found everywhere inside the dealerships while clients and visitors are required to fill out a health declaration form through a QR code.

Junia admits that the level of engagement with clients is no longer as direct as it was pre-pandemic. Now there are protective barriers and 1 meter distancing for safety purposes. Skeleton workforce has also been enforced.

TMP-continued-services-2 — *Toyota dealers continue to deliver customer-centric services safely amid the pandemic.*

“It’s a whole new ball game doing business in the new normal. I used to train the Marketing Professional to sit close to the customer to be able to engage or establish a relationship. That’s all out the door,” Junia remarked. “But despite the new challenges, we remain fully committed to providing our customers quality service from sales to maintenance while staying safe.”

While TMI accepts walk-in customers, he highly recommends setting an appointment with their Marketing Professionals prior to visiting the dealership. This way, clients are assured of a well-prepared staff to assist them with their needs including test drives when they visit.

TMI cleans and sanitizes all their vehicles including test drive models before the vehicles come in the branch and before it’s handed over to the customer. Test drives are available on a by appointment basis and only one customer may do the test drive accompanied by a TMI staff seated at the back to observe social distancing.

Junia assures clients that every service is available on-site from vehicle purchase to proper vehicle maintenance. To further assist clients’ inquiries and concerns online, TMI’s Customer Relations Department (CRD) are now maximizing social media as a business tool to touch base with customers.

Toyota’s high level of engagement with customers is essential to better provide effective consultancy to its clients.

Providing Safe, Personal Mobility

Toyota’s focus has always been making car ownership as affordable as possible. Well aware of the financial challenges brought about by the pandemic, interested car buyers can avail of services offered by Toyota Financial Services PH.

“With Toyota’s various purchase programs such as low equity or low monthly payments depending on the kind of vehicle or payment method, people can acquire a car as easily as possible. We are able to create a package that will help customers especially during this time.” shared Junia.

Toyota also understands the importance of having a vehicle in tip top shape right now and offers the motoring public with affordable maintenance schemes.

Security and Safety Guaranteed

Toyota offers standard warranty of three years or a hundred thousand kilometers, whichever comes first. TMP also reminds car owners of their window of protection within the warranty period, and that having cars maintained in Toyota dealers is important. Following prescribed periodic maintenance schedule, which is usually every 5,000 kilometers or 3 to 4 months, is another sure-fire way to keep Toyota vehicles running smoothly.

As a newly implemented best practice for vehicle servicing, TMI technicians can go to the customer’s location serviced by van or motorcycle, and armed with all the parts and tools they need. For retail clients, a minimum of two technicians are sent as long as their residence allows entry; for fleet accounts at least three to four technicians on board. For parts, inquiries can be done online and arranged for delivery if necessary.

Service with a heart

Toyota tries to go beyond warranty and repair to serve customers better. When the lockdown was first imposed last year, a client’s car brought to the Makati dealership for oil change could not be released. Toyota Makati Inc. went out of its way to deliver the car to the client despite limited operational capacity. Worried the client might need the vehicle for emergencies since they have three senior citizens, the dealership’s General Manager Lee Junia himself delivered the car to the client’s home a few days after a request for vehicle release was sent.

Toyota does service with a heart as they try to go beyond the usual in pursuit of providing safe and personal mobility to their customers.

TMI is just one of Toyota Motor Philippines’ wide network coverage of 70 dealers nationwide ready to serve customers. Each Toyota dealership applies their own measures based on the current situation in their areas to serve their customers better. Nonetheless, Toyota through its dealerships offer the best products and services to address the varying needs of its customers. Dealerships operate at regular hours — 7AM to 5PM for service and 8AM to 5PM for vehicle sales – depending on each dealership’s local community guidelines. Customers are advised to keep in touch with the nearby dealership to know the specific guidelines implemented.

Follow TMP’s official pages – Toyota Motor Philippines on Facebook and Instagram, toyota.com.ph, Twitter (ToyotaMotorPH), and Viber (Toyota PH) – for regular updates on products and services, dealer operations, announcements, and events. For safely distanced viewing, check out Toyota models online at toyota.com.ph/showroom and inquire by choosing your preferred dealership. For after-sales needs and service appointments, MyToyota.ph is accessible online.

Suzuki Philippines extends April promos until May and June

May 12, 2021 Gelzon de la Cruz

Suzuki Philippines, Inc. (SPH), this market’s big name in small cars, extends three of their April promos to May 31 and a fourth one to June 30.

“Dzire to Excel,” their promo for saving up to PhP90,000 on the Dzire sub-compact sedan GL+ (auto gear shift) variant, is extended until May 31.

“Ride In Style,” Suzuki’s promo for acquiring the Ertiga 7-seat MPV for as low as PhP499 a day on a 5-year installment plan and down payment as low as PhP68,000, is extended until May 31.

“Suzuki Grand Deals,” their promo for big discounts and low down payments like PhP120,000 for the XL7 7-seat SUV, PhP49,000 for the S-Presso sub-compact crossover, and PhP8,000 for the Ciaz compact sedan, is extended until May 31.

And, “Shall We Drive?”, Suzuki’s promo for taking home an exclusive Doraemon merchandise kit for free with the purchase of any Dzire sedan variant, is extended until June 30.

All four promos, as approved by DTI-FTEB and for the corresponding extended periods described above, may be availed of through all Suzuki Auto dealerships nationwide.

For more information on Suzuki Auto and their promos, visit http://suzuki.com.ph/auto/.

Toyota advocates mature financial resiliency for weathering the pandemic

May 8, 2021 Gelzon de la Cruz

With a statement on distinguishing needs from desires in evaluating expenditures (full text included below), Toyota Motors Philippines (TMP) advocates the following for young professionals to weather the COVID-19 crisis:

Smart budgeting – TMP suggests ways for managing monthly expenses including the Toyota Financial Services’ Balloon Payment Plus promo for easing the burden of car ownership with lower down-payment and monthly amortization schedules.
Cautious spending – Toyota recommends circumspect shopping and remaining alert for consumer incentives like rebates and discounts as well as value-add programs such as their offer for free PMS, free insurance and extended warranty terms for the popular Vios sedan (see https://toyota.com.ph/promos/tomorrowstartstoday).
Active investing – They suggest being open to opportunities to acquire useful assets that make sense in light of reduced public services. For safer, more secure transport, Toyota points to their popular Vios compact sedan as a compelling personal vehicle investment. Among the few car models still assembled here, the Vios with its proven durability and high resale value is offered in a wide range of variants.

Press Statement by Toyota Motors Philippines (TMP), “Adulting in a Pandemic 101: Learning to differentiate needs from wants and making big-ticket decisions,” 2021:

Today’s challenging circumstances underscore the importance of proper financial management among millennials and Gen Zs.

Manila, Philippines l May 07, 2021: The global pandemic has caught everyone off-guard. While health and safety remains top priority, staying afloat may be the biggest challenge of millennials and Gen Zs young lives thus far. With many getting pay cuts or losing jobs, learning to manage personal finances as soon as possible is a large part of adulthood.

Here are a few things young adults should ponder on and start doing even while in quarantine:

Learn Budgeting

Now is a good time to start a budget. Apply the 50-30-20 rule. Allocate 50% of income towards basic necessities, 30% for leisure and 20% towards financial goals. Take note of billing due dates and pay on time. Use an Excel spreadsheet, an app or even a pen and paper to keep track of expenses.

Look for ways to reduce monthly expenses. Whether that’s subscribing to only one streaming service, downgrading mobile postpaid plan or switching to prepaid or unplugging devices when not in use, the savings from these can go a long way towards improving one’s overall personal financial health.

Financing options such as Toyota Financial Services’ Balloon Payment Plus makes car ownership easier with lower down payment and monthly terms, already inclusive of periodic maintenance services. Such packages make spending lighter on the monthly budget, with guaranteed great resale value options by the end of the term.

Spend Wisely

The pandemic has made everyone’s future a little uncertain so it’s best to be cautious with spending. Distinguish between wants and needs.This applies to the 100 items in one’s online shopping cart. Think long and hard before hitting that checkout button.

When grocery shopping, assess the household’s current supplies and buy only enough for the whole family. Have a shopping list and stick to it as well.

Take advantage of cashbacks and rewards program. Plenty of companies nowadays offer cashback and rewards incentives for every purchase or for paying bills on time.

For big purchases, always go for value for money and explore available instalment plans to make payments lighter on the pocket. One is sure to get their money’s worth with Toyota Vios not only for being a quality and durable car, but also for its added value benefits such as free periodic maintenance service (PMS), extended warranty, or free car insurance. Worried about shelling out a lot money? With Toyota’s myriad of available financing solutions from low downpayment schemes to discounts, owning the Vios is made as affordable as possible.

Start or Keep Investing

There are many forms of investment one can do even while in quarantine.

Building and diversifying financial investment portfolios is a good idea for young adults. With retirement decades away, not only is there more time to learn and recover from possible losses, investing can also help one achieve financial freedom earlier.

With work from home and less socializing still the norm, another investment worth considering is learning. Take up a new language. Read more books. Enroll in an online certification course. Investing in education is a great way to help increase one’s personal development and professional value.

Some big ticket items are also worth investing on during this period. With persisting limited transportations due to quarantine restrictions, having a car can provide more flexible mobility when traveling to work, the grocery store or running errands since there’s no need to queue in line, waiting for a ride. More importantly, Gen Zs and millennials can reduce their exposure to the virus by driving their own car. Experts advise to be at least 6 feet away from people but with public transportation, this may be more challenging to follow.

An excellent investment for first-time car owners looking for a safe and reliable mode of transportation, the Toyota Vios delivers performance that levels up the lifestyle. Recently named as the Most Reliable Car Brand for 2020 , Toyota offers more than what meets the eye. With an array of variants to choose from, the Toyota Vios is easy to maintain, has a spacious interior, and boasts an impressive engine performance that provides a driving experience that can withstand the knocks of daily errands. Depending on one’s goals, one can avail of the XE variant for that everyday practical car, or grab the recently launched Toyota Vios GR-S that comes with a track-ready aesthetic – both in its interior and exterior. And if along the line one is considering to upgrade, a Toyota vehicle has an impressive resale value – truly a bang for one’s buck.

The Toyota Vios is proudly assembled by Filipino automotive makers in the Philippines. By choosing the Toyota Vios, one not only enjoy the perks of having a dependable car, but also help support the livelihood of fellow Filipinos working in the local automotive industry.

With enough patience and determination, one will get the hang of adulting with money and build a better, more secure future.

To know more about the Toyota Vios, please visit Toyota Motors Philippines’ website at https://toyota.com.ph/vios or explore the Toyota Virtual Showroom. To get real-time updates follow them on Facebook and Instagram.

Isuzu welcomes summer with BLOWBAGETS services discount promo

May 4, 2021 Gelzon de la Cruz

Isuzu Philippines greets the summer with their BLOWBAGETS maintenance services discount promo. Patterned after the PNP-HPG’s catchy car maintenance mnemonic, Isuzu offers the following discounts and freebies until June 30:

Category	Service and Discount / Freebies
Battery	battery replacement with 20% off on labor
Lights	lightbulb replacement with 20% off on labor and on parts
Oil	oil change or complete PMS with free 1 liter engine oil
Water	wiper blade replacement with 20% off on labor and on parts
Brakes	brake service package with 20% off on labor
Air Gasoline (or diesel) Engine	free health report for PMS, Express Check (Gj) and Caltex SavePlus cardholders
Tires	wheel alignment with 20% off on labor
Safety features	all vehicles will also undergo routine checks on warning devices, stability control systems, brakes and particularly all ADAS functions of the top-spec, third generation Isuzu D-Max

Isuzu encourages customers to book their service visits in advance through their dealers portal at https://www.isuzuphil.com/dealers. More information on their BLOWBAGETS promo can be found at https://www.isuzuphil.com/promo/isuzu-blowbagets-promo.

Chevron rolls out ten new Caltex storefronts in Q1 2021

April 24, 2021 Gelzon de la Cruz1 Comment

After being hindered by health crisis disruptions last year, Chevron Philippines, Inc. (CPI) started this year strong, pushing for significant growth in their network of Caltex service stations as well as their Caltex-Havoline automotive services workshops.

Bringing their network to nearly 650 locations nationwide, CPI added eight new Caltex service stations for the Luzon island group:

North Luzon

On southbound lane side of MacArthur Highway, Barangay Paras, Candon City, Ilocos Sur
Along Maharlika Highway in San Mateo, Isabela
On the Naguilian-Baguio route at Barangay Ortiz, Naguilian, La Union

South Luzon

On Pulo Diezmo road in Cabuyao, Laguna
In Barangay Tinga, Batangas City, Batangas

Palawan

On South road, Barangay Bataraza, Puerto Princesa
On South road at Poblacion, Rio Tuba
On North road, Barangay San Manuel, Puerto Princesa

And, bringing their set of Caltex-Havoline autoPro and bikePro service centers to 75 workshops, CPI added two new locations–one for North Luzon and another for Davao City in Mindanao:

Caltex-Havoline autoPro workshop open Mondays to Saturdays from 8AM to 5PM and located at F. Julian street in Barangay 2 along Pila Road in Laoag City, Ilocos Norte
Caltex Havoline autoProx workshop open Mondays to Saturdays from 8AM to 6PM and located at the diversion road on Diosdado Macapagal Highway, Ma-a, Davao City

Press Statement by Chevron Philippines, Inc. (CPI), “Caltex accelerates network growth in Q1 to help fuel a recovering economy,” 2021:

Manila, Philippines, April 16, 2021– Posting strong network growth in the first quarter of 2021, Caltex, marketed by Chevron Philippines Inc. (CPI), warmly embraces the dry season by boosting its retail network with eight newly-opened service stations and two Caltex Havoline autoPro workshop openings in key provinces.

Bolstering its network of nearly 650 service stations and 75 Caltex Havoline autoPro and bikePro workshops at present, Caltex seeks to cater to the fuel and car maintenance needs of both local and transient motorists nationwide this season.

Travel better by tanking up at more Caltex stations

Motorists heading up north can stop for refueling at the recently inaugurated service station in Brgy. Paras, Candon City, Ilocos Sur. Situated along the southbound lane of the MacArthur highway, the service station is now ready to power motorists coming to and from Metro Manila and other provinces. Candon City is regarded as the “Tobacco Capital of the Philippines” and is also notable for its C-shape landmass.

Another Caltex station opened in San Mateo, Isabela, ready to perk up the daily drives of motorists in the area. This service station is strategically located along the country’s principal transport backbone, Maharlika Highway, which connects Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao. San Mateo is also an agro-ecological area known as the largest producer of mung beans or munggo in the country.

The second Caltex service station in Naguilian, La Union also rose in Brgy. Ortiz, the focal hub of the town’s commercial activities. This station caters to motorists going to and from Baguio City. Naguilian is an agricultural town that is home to the original Basi, a native fermented beverage made from sugarcane.

In South Luzon, Caltex recently opened two stations in Pulo Diezmo Road, Cabuyao and Brgy. Tinga, Batangas City to serve quality fuels to private vehicles and commercial fleets travelling around the provinces of Laguna and Batangas. Cabuyao is often called the “Golden Bell City” while the cove-shaped Batangas City is dubbed as the “Industrial Port City of CALABARZON.” The two areas are home to historical landmarks, beaches, and gastronomic cuisines.

Locals and tourists basking in the splendor of the tropical paradise of Palawan can also fill up their vehicle tanks at the newly-opened Caltex stations to power a blissful escapade around the island. The three Caltex stations are situated in South Road, Brgy. Bataraza, Puerto Princesa; South Road, Poblacion, Rio Tuba, and North Road, Brgy. San Manuel, Puerto Princesa. Motorists can also opt to visit the commercial stalls around the roadside stations for refreshments. Palawan takes pride in its pristine beaches and coastlines, picturesque cave formations, and prized delicacies.

The [eight] Caltex stations deliver the premium Euro 4 compliant fuel Caltex with Techron to guarantee motorists higher vehicle performance, cleaner engines, and lower emissions. Caltex also maintains strict health protocols and offers cashless payment options to ensure safer drives for motorists and to further the country’s recovery.

Conquer longer roads with more maintenance hubs

Aside from its service station openings, two new Caltex Havoline autoPro workshops were also opened in Luzon and Mindanao. Motorists in Ilocos Norte needing a vehicle tune-up can make a pit stop at the newly-opened Northbound Auto Care site located at Brgy. 2, F. Julian St., Pila Road, Laoag City. Open on Mondays to Saturdays from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., this autoPro workshop is ready to provide quality Caltex lubricant products and services, such as maintenance checks and car repairs.

The second recently-opened Caltex Havoline autoPro workshop stands along Diosdado Macapagal Highway, Diversion Road, Ma-a, Davao City. On top of its quality automotive products, this one-stop vehicle maintenance workshop has quick service bays for oil and fluid change, ancillary bays for minor repairs, and wash bays for car cleaning. It operates from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. and is open from Mondays to Saturdays.

Motorists and gearheads alike are guaranteed the best possible experience the moment they drive in at the Caltex Havoline autoPro and bikePro workshops as these sites have quality Caltex lubricant products, accommodating frontline staff, well-trained mechanics, and modern facilities that can make them feel secure. The two workshops cater to cars and motorcycles, respectively.

“Not only can motorists enjoy a wonderful, uninterrupted ride with our top-tier fuels and lubricants, but also experience high level of customer service, less waiting time for gassing up with more efficient digital payment options, and exciting rewards. Caltex continues to offer these services to bring a safer and next-level travel experience for motorists nationwide. We also remain committed to expanding our network in the country’s remote regions and in urban areas where commerce thrives to help buoy up the Philippine economy. Sa Caltex, tuloy-tuloy ang biyahe,” CPI Country Chairman Billy Liu said.

This year, Caltex continues to ramp up its retail portfolio by adding more Caltex stations and Caltex Havoline autoPro and bikePro workshops to serve many Filipinos nationwide. Motorists can find the nearest Caltex station in their area at www.caltex.com/ph/find-a-caltex-station and the list of Caltex Havoline autoPro workshops at www.caltex.com/ph/motorists/products-and-services/havoline-autopro-workshop/.

Isuzu Philippines donates D-Max to GMA Kapuso Foundation’s ‘Labanan Natin ang COVID-19’ campaign

April 21, 2021 Gelzon de la Cruz

Isuzu Philippines Corporation (IPC), the top truck brand’s exclusive assembler, importer and distributor of Isuzu vehicles in the country, donated and turned over D-Max LS A/T pickup truck to the GMA Kapuso Foundation (GMAKF) last April 16. IPC’s donation is intended to support GMAKF’s ongoing “Labanan Natin ang COVID-19” campaign for providing personal protective equipment to public hospital and border frontliners, and groceries packs to indigent quarantined families, nationwide.

Of their donation, IPC president Hajime Koso said: “We are delighted again to extend our support to GMA’s public service endeavors. Their philosophy of ‘Serbisyong Totoo’ closely resonates with our own corporate values and mantra on being ‘Your Responsible Partner’ not just when it comes to being behind the wheel but also in giving back to the community.”

IPC had initially stuck up a partnership with GMAKF back in 2018–several years before the quarantine lockdowns of the COVID-19 crisis–when they committed to providing transport aid to the television network foundation’s civic emergency and relief operations. IPC president Hajime Koso reaffirmed put this commitment in context saying, “we stand by our pledge to help Filipinos in need during these tough times where the country is still combating the pandemic.”

About the vehicle IPC chose to donate to GMAKF, Koso said: “The Isuzu D-MAX is known to be tough inside and out. Known for its off-road capabilities and loading capacity, we hope that our volunteer aids will gain added confidence and be able to move easily and comfortably to reach those who are residing in remote, mountainous areas.”

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