Isuzu INTECO Steps Up COVID-19 Efforts

One of Isuzu Philippines Corporation’s dealer groups, INTECO (Industrial & Transport Equipment Inc), has been in the forefront of the automotive industry’s all-out efforts to assist the country’s front liners in the medical, hospital, armed forces and essential industries in their fight to halt the further spread of COVID-19 in the Philippines.

With its rallying cry “The Family That Cares”, INTECO has held numerous operations since the early part of the Luzon-wide enhanced community quarantine (ECQ), in coordination with its four dealerships (INTECO EDSA, Quezon Avenue, Pangasinan, and Pampanga), the concerned local government units, and the beneficiaries and frontliners involved in these operations.

Among these operations INTECO has spearheaded were:

• Servicing Route 17 (Metro Manila northeast area) starting from SM City San Jose Del Monte to SM Fairview/Commonwealth Hospital and MC. Coordinating closely with the Department of Transportation, INTECO transports medical front liners, materials to manufacture face shields and personal protective equipment (PPEs), relief goods and medical supplies, and continues  providing daily transportation services to the front liners at PGH;
• Donations of Disposable Bed Sheets, Face Shields, Face Masks, PPE's  to Kidney Foundation, Pasig City General Hospital (PCGH), and Pasig City Child Hope, Metropolitan Hospital in Manila, Bernardino General Hospital, New Era General Hospital, Diliman Doctors Hospital, Metro North Medical Center and Hospital, Ospital ng Paranaque, Healing Servants Foundation, National  Center for Mental Health, Research Institute for Tropical Medicine (RITM), Las Pinas General Hospital, 40 boxes of disposable bed sheets to PCGH, Victorino Luna Medical Center, East Avenue Medical Center, Philippine Foundation for Breast Care, and Tuguegarao Medical Center;
• Providing resources and relief goods to Cordillera Mountain Province, Benguet Baguio General Hospital, Bataan Medical Hospital, National Kidney Transplant Institute, Makati Medical Center, Batangas Medical, Concordia College, Andres Bonifacio Memorial Medical Center, and other collaborations of government agencies with private institutions;
• Providing valuable assistance to organizations such as: Felta Multi Media, Zonta Club Metro Pasig, CKSC Batch 84, North Road, DOTr, DSWD, DYCI, CHEERS Corp, OMNI Fab, and Laxmana Factory.

IPC President Hajime Koso lauded INTECO’s efforts. “INTECO’s valuable assistance to transport front liners and essential goods, as well as providing various services in this crucial stage of the Filipino society’s concerted efforts to quell the spread of COVID-19 is truly the ideal example of an organization that truly embodies a ‘responsible partner’. It is heartening to see not only INTECO step up to do what it can, but also the rest of the IPC dealership network in their own areas. Together, we will triumph over the most difficult adversities. IPC, together with the rest of the organizations in the local automotive industry, will do all that we can for the nation to overcome this global pandemic and at the same time ensure the security, health, and well-being of our employees and staff.”

Isuzu PH, Dealers Give Additional Support to Medical Front Liners

Following up on its March 27 lend-out of Isuzu D-Max, Isuzu mu-X, and Isuzu PUVs as front liner transport vehicles in Biñan and Sta. Rosa Laguna.  Isuzu Philippines Corporation (IPC) lent out two additional Isuzu units—one Isuzu NLR and one Isuzu QKR modern PUVs.

Part of the Department of Transportation (DOTr)’s free bus service for front line workers, these two Isuzu modern PUVs will help service the 19 routes spread around Luzon to help the country’s healthcare and front line workers in their fight against COVID-19.

In addition, Isuzu dealerships have also sprung to action. Isuzu Inteco lent their PUV vehicles to transport healthcare workers and front liners to service the vicinity of Caloocan and Quezon City for free, Isuzu-BMD Motors provided relief goods, while Isuzu Iloilo provided a D-Max for the city hospital’s use.

IPC President Hajime Koso said, “With this additional vehicle support, we at IPC hope that our dedicated and enduring heroes in the hospitals would find comfort and safety in their transport. Through our vehicles, we can help them fight the virus more efficiently and effectively.”

Isuzu PH Helps Hometown of Biñan and Santa Rosa by Providing Front Liner Transport Needs

Isuzu Philippines Corporation (IPC) joins other automakers in providing for the transportation needs of the country’s healthcare and frontline workers in the fight against COVID-19 particularly in their adaptive hometown of Biñan, Laguna.

Two Isuzu D-Max units pickup trucks one mu-X SUV were lent to authorized representatives of the Biñan local government, while three Isuzu light commercial vehicles were delivered as well to help support front liners in the area.

Isuzu also lent one mu-X and one NLR PUV to Medical City in Sta. Rosa, Laguna as well, which will be used as the Medical City's front liners’ service. IPC still continues to reach out to other hospitals to address their mobility problems.

“As the world, including the Philippines, faces an unprecedented health crisis threatening countless lives, our healthcare workers and front liners—the doctors, nurses, medical researchers, hospital and clinic technicians, and other staff—have risked their own lives to help stop the pandemic, while caring for those who have contracted the disease. And they have been performing such selfless work tirelessly, without letup. With these vehicles, we at IPC hope that our dedicated and enduring heroes in the hospitals would find comfort and safety in their transport. Through our vehicles, we can help them fight the virus more effectively,” says IPC President Hajime Koso.

Isuzu PH's Mobile Medic Can Still Service Isuzu Vehicles in Essential Sectors

Isuzu Philippines Corporation is assuring its customers that during this period of Enhanced Community Quarantine, its mobile service—Isuzu Mobile Medics is still online.

The mobile repair fleet is still active, and is being used to make sure that Isuzu vehicles part of essential services are kept running during the duration of the Luzon-wide Enhanced Community Quarantine. Owners, operators, and drivers can still avail of expert and experienced Isuzu service wherever and whenever they are needed.

“The Isuzu Mobile Medic is an onsite emergency servicing and is essential for Isuzu vehicles to continue operating uninterrupted in the government, armed forces, utility companies, logistics, and healthcare sectors,” Mr. Koso added.

For bookings, contact Customer Relations through customer-relations [at] suzuphil.com.

For other Isuzu owners though, their 45-strong dealer network is offering a 30-day grace period on all scheduled Periodic Maintenance Service, while all Isuzu vehicles whose warranty coverage will be lapsing within the quarantine period will also be given a 30-day warranty extension.

Isuzu PH Offers 30-Day Warranty Extension, PMS Grace Period During Quarantine Period

A week into the community quarantine, Isuzu Philippines Corporation is following the lead of Mazda, Honda, Toyota, and Ford in extending its warranty and offering a grace period for those who missed or will miss their Periodic Maintenance Service (PMS).

In an official announcement posted on their social media accounts, Isuzu says:

“All Isuzu vehicles nationwide with scheduled Periodic Maintenance Service (PMS) within the quarantine period will be provided with a 30-day grace period from its required PMS interval date. Similarly, all Isuzu vehicles with warranty coverage lapsing thereof will be given a 30-day extension.”

For more information about this, Isuzu owners are encouraged to send them at email at: customer-relations [at] isuzuphil.com.

Isuzu Pasig is IPC's 2019 Dealer of the Year

Isuzu Pasig is the Overall Champion at Isuzu Philippines Corporation’s 15th Dealer of the Year Awards (DOYA). The 2019 DOYA capped off a challenging, but fulfilling year for the IPC dealer network’s sales force and aftersales operations.

In his welcome remarks, IPC President Mr. Hajime Koso said, “Tonight, as we give due recognition to our best dealers and performers of 2019, I would like to encourage all of you to step up to our commitment to serve our valued customers.”

“Let 2020 be the year wherein we see a turn-around in our aftersales service and excellence in vehicle sales as we gear towards a sustainable business and as we once again claim the No. 1 position for truck brand this year”, he added.

Hailed as the 2019 Dealer of the Year Champion was Isuzu Pasig, with Isuzu Bulacan and Isuzu Sta. Rosa 1st and 2 runners up, respectively.

The Most Improved Dealership of the Year award was handed to Isuzu Makati.

The Sales Executive of the Year in the LCV Category was Migueland Castro from Isuzu Edsa, while the Sales Executive of the Year in the CV Category was Erlinda Erfe of Isuzu Cagayan de Oro.

2019 DOYA Awards were also given to Isuzu Pasig, Isuzu Cebu, and Isuzu Bulacan for being Excellent in Sales Operations, Isuzu Bulacan, Isuzu Sta. Rosa, and Isuzu EDSA for being Excellent in Parts Operation, Isuzu Sta. Rosa, Isuzu Cavite, and Isuzu Alabang as Excellence in Service Operations, and Isuzu Butuan, Isuzu Sto. Tomas, and Isuzu Cabanatuan as Excellence in Customer Service Operations.

Isuzu is Philippines's Best-Selling Truck Brand for 20 Straight Years

According to the latest figures supplied by the Truck Manufacturers Association (TMA) and the Chamber of Automotive Manufacturers of the Philippines Inc. (CAMPI), Isuzu Philippines Corporation (IPC) retains its leadership in the Commercial Vehicle (CV) truck category.

This marks the 20th straight year, that IPC has emerged number one overall in truck sales. From January to December 2019, IPC sold a total of 6,279 Category 3, 4, and 5 trucks, representing a strong 45 percent market share of the total 14,049 brand new trucks sold during the year, increased by 2 percent from the previous year.

IPC dominated the Category 3 (Light-Duty Truck) sales with 4,241 units sold, while also holding number one spot in Category 4 (Medium-Duty truck) with 1,566 units sold. In the Category 5 (Heavy-Duty truck), IPC landed a strong second, with 472 units sold.

IPC President Hajime Koso attributed the brand’s continued success to Isuzu’ global reputation as a world’s leading truck maker, the durability and reliability of its trucks, and the full aftersales service of an extensive nationwide dealership network.

Isuzu Previews Traviz-Based Modern PUV

Isuzu previewed their new Class 1 Modern PUV based off its recently launched Traviz light-duty truck. It was shown during the turnover of 30 brand-new modern PUVs to the Pangkalahatang Sanggunian Manila & Suburbs Drivers Association (Pasang-Masda), one of the country’s biggest transport groups.

The Traviz Class 1 Modern PUV passes the DOTr Omnibus Franchise Guidelines, and will replace the quintessenial jeepney in plying crowded inner-city roads.

It was shown as the Japanese commercial vehicle giant turned over a third batch of modern PUVs to Pasang-Masda. The 30 units will ply the busy route between the growing cities of Malolos and Meycauayan in Bulacan Province.

According to Isuzu, their modern PUVs are not only beneficial to the commuters but also to the drivers and operators as it increases the quality of their livelihood. Isuzu modern PUVs are very versatile, allowing for customization that any PUV operations may require.

The units turned over to Pasang-Masda use the Isuzu QKR77 platform and the rear body designed and manufactured by Almazora Motors Corporation. They are are air-conditioned Class 2 PUVs assembled in the Philippines and are equipped with Euro IV-compliant 4JH1-TC diesel engine that delivers excellent fuel economy. The air conditioning system, developed and provided by Coolaire Consolidated Inc., boasts ducted airflow and a high-cooling capacity to keep commuters comfortable regardless of outdoor temperature.

Other design features of the Isuzu Class 2 Modern PUV include panoramic windows and windshields, full-body insulation with GeneQ shield, automatic door closer, and provisions for persons with disabilities.

Completing the modernized look and features of the new PUVs are the LED electronic signages for vehicle route information, fire extinguishers, CCTV, dash cam and back-up cameras, and the automatic fare collection provided by Euodoo Technologies, Inc.

Isuzu Philippines Donates a D-Max to Help in Taal Relief Operations

Isuzu Philippines Corporation (IPC) donated one Isuzu D-Max 4x4 LS MT to the Philippine Red Cross (PRC), Laguna Chapter for the mobilization of relief efforts due to the eruption of Taal Volcano.

The turnover which happened at the IPC plant in Biñan, Laguna included additional supplies such as bottled water, toiletries, clothes, and other essentials apart from the D-Max unit itself.

After being used in Taal relief efforts, the D-Max will then be used to support the Philippine Red Cross’s mission to provide life-saving services that protect the life of Filipinos in vulnerable situations.

Isuzu Philippines to Open 2 Additional Mindanao Dealerships

Bolstering its presence in the Mindanao regions for having one of the most promising growth potentials for the automotive and transport industries in the years to come, Isuzu Philippines Corporation (IPC) conducted formal signing ceremonies for two new dealerships last December.

Held at the Isuzu Philippines head office in Biñan, Laguna, the first dealership agreement signed was between IPC and Isuzu Tagum, with President Hajime Koso and Executive Vice President Shojiro Sakoda representing IPC, and President Walter Alvarez and Managing Director Edward Bangayan representing Image Motors Davao Del Norte Inc, signing for Isuzu Tagum.

The second ceremony was between IPC and Isuzu Pagadian, signing a memorandum of agreement (MOA) with Mr. George Ongchua, General Manager of Northern Mindanao Automotive Dealership Inc., for the establishment of a satellite office in Pagadian City.

Isuzu Tagum is located at the northern portion of Southern Mindanao and lies in the intersection of three major road network system namely the ‘Philippine-Japan Friendship Highway’, the ‘Davao-Mati-Agusan Road’, and the ‘Davao-Bukidnon Road’ that connects the city to other major destinations in the region and for the rest of Mindanao.

As the city serves as a vital economic crossroad not only for the province, but for the entire Davao Region, the new Isuzu dealership is strategically situated in at Brgy. Canocotan, Tagum City, Davao del Norte.

On the other hand, Isuzu Pagadian is positioned at the regional center of Zamboanga Peninsula and the second-largest city in the region, bridging its nearby provinces to serve and provide quality Isuzu products, excellent after-sales service, and to become the most competitive transportation hub in the region.

Agriculture is the main economic resource of Pagadian, while several large deep-sea fishing vessels which venture into the Sulu Sea and West Philippine Sea, make Pagadian fish port their base of operation.

Establishing Isuzu presence in Pagadian will be the response to its growing transportation and logistics requirements, most especially for Isuzu trucks.

Isuzu Pagadian and Isuzu Tagum will feature the newest Isuzu showroom design that provides a better atmosphere and better kind of service. Both dealerships also comprise the strategic “triangle” of supply and service of world-class Isuzu vehicle brands in Mindanao, covering Northern Mindanao, Zamboanga Peninsula, and Davao Region.

Isuzu Tagum will be completed in May 2020, while Isuzu Pagadian dealership will be completed in February 2020.

Isuzu Philippines Continues to Grow Dealer Network with La Union Ground Breaking

On track for its “Road to 50 Dealerships”, Isuzu Philippines Corporation (IPC) formally held the groundbreaking ceremony for the new Isuzu dealership in La Union.

IPC led the ceremonial installation of the time capsule on the 7,300-square meter lot along the national highway in Barrio Paringao in Bauang, La Union. The facility is expected to be completed mid-2020. The Isuzu La Union dealership features the new design guidelines for Isuzu dealerships, which has a cleaner and more streamlined interior and façade.

Benigno Garcia, Chairman and President of One Maharlika Motor Sales and Services Corporation will oversee the operations of this contemporary designed dealership. He added that the 3,000-square meter showroom can display 4 light commercial vehicles (LCVs) and 2 commercial vehicles (CVs), while the service area can accommodate up to 5 LCVs and 4 trucks in its service bays.

Isuzu La Union dealership also marks a new partnership between IPC and One Maharlika Motor Sales and Services Corporation.

The Country's First Isuzu Automatic Transmission Heavy-Duty Truck is with Coca-Cola

Coca-Cola Beverage Philippines, Inc. (CCBPI), the bottling arm of Coca-Cola in the country, has partnered with Isuzu Philippines Corporation (IPC)— the country’s leading manufacturer of brand-new trucks— to further enhance safety and sustainability within its logistics operations. 95 top-of-the-line vehicles have been turned over to Coca-Cola’s already expansive delivery fleet.

Coca-Cola operates one of the biggest truck fleets in the Philippines, with almost 3,000 trucks and over 2,000 sales service vehicles. Approximately 2,500 shipments per day are undertaken, transporting to 20,000 doors across the country. For operations this massive in scale, the Company implements a road safety framework built on three pillars: organization and culture, vehicles and technologies, and the drivers. Each pillar, in turn, has different programs and initiatives that address capability development, technical standards and monitoring, and driving performance and engagement.

Isuzu FVR trucks with installed Allison Automatic Transmission—the first of its kind in the Philippines—were among the partnership turnover highlights. These trucks’ transmission were specially crafted by leading automotive expert Gendiesel Philippines, Inc. The installed palletized bottle carriers were made by IPC partner body builders, Almazora and Centro.

The partnership with Isuzu, whose commercial vehicles are known for their reliability and efficiency, promises to deliver dependable transportation solutions to support Coca-Cola’s extensive and intensive distribution requirements. Isuzu trucks are equipped with Euro IV- to V-compliant engines that produce cleaner emissions; and with blue power technology, which helps make the trucks more powerful, yet economical and environmentally friendly.

These new acquisitions are in keeping with Coca-Cola’s long-standing commitment to reduce carbon emissions and to achieve sustainable operations in fleet management—through the use of low-emission engines in its trucks and through the adoption of new technologies to further improve their logistics and distribution capabilities.

Isuzu to Open in Bacoor City Soon

Isuzu Philippines Corporation will be opening in Bacoor City soon after they’ve formally broken ground on the newest location of a 3S dealership southwest of Metro Manila.

Through Isuzu Automotive Dealership, Inc. (IADI), IPC secured the Isuzu Bacoor dealership located at Lot 4652-B along Molino Boulevard. Isuzu Bacoor, with a total land area of over 4,000 square meters, will showcase Isuzu’s latest showroom design.

Isuzu Bacoor will be operated by IADI, an authorized dealer of Isuzu commercial vehicles and wholly owned by Ayala Automotive Holdings Corporation. IADI has been IPC’s partner since 1996 and covers a nationwide network of 9 dealerships.

During the ceremony, IPC President Hajime Koso remarked that the time was appropriate for IPC to establish its newest dealership in the city.

“I see the current potential of Bacoor. Business activities are booming, especially in retail, banking, service and manufacturing sectors. That is why Bacoor has the highest family income in the province of Cavite, making the city an ideal place to establish small and medium-sized businesses. I also see the city’s future potential. I believe Bacoor is not just the gateway to NCR. Soon, Bacoor itself will become a strong city, conducive to the IT-BPO and manufacturing industries,” Koso said.

He added that once Isuzu Bacoor becomes fully operational, the dealership could be the city’s invaluable partner to further progress. “This groundbreaking ceremony marks the construction of our new dealership here in Bacoor City, which demonstrates our dedication and commitment to create tailored transport solutions that make the greatest difference to individuals and businesses in the Philippines,” Koso added.

Isuzu Opens in Calapan, Oriental Mindoro

Isuzu Philippines Corporation (IPC) continues to expand its retail presence in Luzon by adding Isuzu Calapan to its growing list of Isuzu dealerships across the country.

Isuzu Calapan, owned and operated by Mina de Oro Motors Incorporated, situated in Km. 9 Nautical Highway, Putting Tubig, Calapan, Oriental Mindoro, is the first dealership to implement the new showroom design concept.

Calapan, being the center of trade and commerce, agriculture industry, transport and communication in Oriental Mindoro, Isuzu Calapan guarantees to cater to the growing business of the province.

The new dealership that proudly serves the local Mindoreños includes an extensive showroom that can house two trucks and four passenger vehicles, wide service bays that can accommodate heavy-duty trucks, and sale of Isuzu Genuine Parts. Isuzu Philippines is committed to winning customers with elevated customer service and highly competitive prices.

Few days before the opening of Isuzu Calapan, IPC launched the All-New Isuzu Traviz—the newest workhorse that can cater to SMEs. Mr. Hajime Koso, IPC President, said that Isuzu Traviz is well-suited for the business of Mindoreños.

Mr. Daniel Uy, President of Mina de Oro Motors Incorporated, mentioned that the opening of Isuzu Calapan dealership signalized a huge demand in the business in South, especially in the business sector of fleet and commerce industry.

“We are happy to further boost the Isuzu brand and provide easier access for the residents who wants to use dependable and economical vehicles, both for personal and business use.” Said Mr. Uy.

IPC President Hajime Koso also added, “We at Isuzu Philippines are very happy to establish our presence here in Calapan City, in response to the growing transportation requirements of Mindoro most especially for trucks and LCVs.”

25 More Isuzu Modern PUVs Hit the Road in South Metro Manila

Isuzu Philippines Corporation (IPC), the country’s leading manufacturer and distributor of brand-new trucks, continues its effort to support the government’s Public Utility Vehicle Modernization Program (PUVMP) to bring safer, more efficient, more convenient, and more environmentally sustainable transport system to Filipinos.

IPC turned over the third batch of brand-new Isuzu PUVs to MetroExpress Connect Inc. (MCI), which consists of 25 units that will ply the routes of Las Piñas to Daang Hari, Kawit, Cavite to PITX, Tanza, Cavite to PITX, and General Trias to Daang Hari.

 MCI started as shuttle services group, with a fleet of no more than 20 shuttles servicing private subdivisions, providing quality transportation to communities, connecting them to commercial developments and city centers.

As the years progress, MCI have soon acquired bigger and bolder projects, widening their operation, and choosing Isuzu PUVs as their transportation hub, MCI will be able to guarantee its commuters to have a safe, seamless, and reliable transportation.

IPC’s modernized PUVs assembled using the Isuzu QKR77 platform and the PUV body designed and manufactured by Almazora Motors Corp, is equipped with the Euro IV-compliant 4JH1-TC diesel engine that delivers better fuel economy and cleaner emissions than jeepneys; thus guarantees its clients like MetroExpress Connect Inc. to provide quality and reliable transportation, connecting passengers and communities to their destinations the easy way.

IPC President Hajime Koso encouraged other transport companies across the country to already make that switch to safer, cleaner, more convenient, and more reliable modernized PUVs. “I have always believed that the Isuzu PUVs are truly a vehicle made by the Filipinos for the Filipinos and we are confident that these units will be able to provide a more durable, comfortable, and safe transport solution for the riding public.”

Isuzu Philippines Will Run After the Unauthorized Sale of Isuzu-branded Products

Isuzu Philippines Corporation or IPC is threatening to use the full extent of the law to run after the unauthorized use of the trademark, “Isuzu” and all related marks after it has come to their attention that entities have been offering brand-new Isuzu vehicles in the Philippines without proper authorization.

IPC is reminding that Isuzu Motors Limited (IML) of Japan is the registered owner of the trademark, “Isuzu” and all related marks worldwide, including in the Philippines, and that IPC is the duly authorized distributor and assembler of Isuzu products in the Philippines by virtue of a valid Assembler Distributor Agreement.

Additionally, both IML and IPC have not authorized any individuals/entities to conduct distribution, marketing, or sales activities outside of the IPC dealership network.

IPC warned that "any unauthorized use or infringement of the trademark Isuzu and related marks, or adopting any confusingly similar mark, will be dealt with and prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law. All violators must cease and desist from conducting such unlawful acts, which include unauthorized sale, offering for sale, distribution, importation, advertising, and other preparatory steps necessary to carry out the sale of goods or services.”

Taking stock of its long-standing good reputation among Filipino buyers, IPC reiterated that its brand-new vehicles strictly follow specifications of IML in Japan, are fitted with genuine Isuzu parts, and comes with aftersales services. It guarantees that only the latest components and the best care and maintenance will be given to each vehicle rolling out of the IPC-authorized dealers. The same cannot be guaranteed by IPC with respect to brand-new vehicles purchased through other channels.

Rally Driving Immersion Project Aims to Raise the Popularity of Rally Racing

Isuzu Philippines Corporation sponsored the Rally Driving Immersion Project or RDIP where motoring media personalities were able to get behind the wheel of a rally-prepped truck to experience the thrills of rally driving.

The project, in partnership with the Philippine Rally School (PRS) and the Philippine Rallycross Series (PHRX) held its second leg last October 5 where participants went through with formal training on rally driving techniques.

It was done at the rallycross facility of the Pradera Verde Estates in Lubao, Pampanga.

The PRS, with veteran rally drivers Jun Magno, Steve Acayan, and Denise Santos taught the basics of rally driving in a controlled dirt course. Among the basics learned included proper driving position, rally lines (late apex), braking, car control on loose surface, basic maneuvers, and driving on a skid pad.

The skills acquired from the Rally Clinic aims to provide motoring journalists with deeper know-how about car control which they can then relay to the cars they test for their respective publications.

Isuzu Philippines provided the reliable D-Max 3.0 4x4 A/T and mu-X 3.0 4x4 A/T for the RDIP. In their latest guise, these two offerings provide an ample 177 horsepower and 380 Nm of torque.
A brainchild of veteran motoring journalist Anjo Perez, the RDIP aims to help raise the popularity of the event rally racing through the experiential ride and drive event for the media.

“It is usually the motoring media who writes about these races and it would only be fitting for them to experience and know exactly what a rally driver experiences during a race,” Perez said. “Hopefully after undergoing the Rally Driving Immersion Project, it will enable the motoring journalists to convey first person experience of the events or situations that transpires during the event.

The RDIP is also supported by Black Rhino Wheels, Nitto Tires, PIAA, Sonax, CTEK, Ichiro Motor Oils, Wuerth Philippines, and Red Bull.

Hyundai, Toyota, and Isuzu Are Offering Discounted Oil Change Packages This Month

This month, there’s a battle of affordable oil change packages going on at your friendly casa. There are at least three brands offering discounted rates on oil change packages throughout September: Hyundai, Toyota, and Isuzu.

Under Hyundai’s 888 Promo, the Eon and Accent (gasoline variant only) are offered with the following oil change package: Hyundai Eon – P 888.00, Hyundai Accent Gas Kappa / Gas Gamma – P 1,188.00.

The package is inclusive of parts, lubricants (mineral-based oil only), and labor. It also comes with a 23-point vehicle inspection as well. In order to get this discounted rate, owners need to present their Service Passport to their authorized Hyundai dealer.

Over at Toyota, owners of Vios (2003-2013 only) are entitled to a P 999 oil change inclusive of parts (oil filter, drain plug gasket), motor oil (mineral), and labor with their Vios 999 Change Oil Promo. The package also includes the cleaning and adjusting of brakes and a free Caltex SavePlus Card. And to help keep motoring worry-free, there’s also a 20-point safety inspection, too.

While the P 999 uses only mineral oil, adding P 1,000 (for a total of P 1,999) gives you fully synthetic oil.

Finally, there’s Isuzu. Available for owners of out-of-warranty vehicles (D-Max, mu-X, Alterra, Crosswind), Isuzu Philippines Corporation is slashing the price of its Isuzu Quick Oil Change service by around 35 percent. The prices are as follows: D-Max – P 3,185.68 (from P 4,362.91), Mu-X – P 3,185.68 (from P 4,362.91), Crosswind – P 2,661.03 (from P 3,255.91), and Alterra – P 3,613.39 (from P 4,749.14).

For Isuzu’s promo, D-Max and mu-X will use Isuzu Best Value Parts, while for the Crosswind and Alterra, they’ll be using Isuzu Genuine Parts. All models will be filled up using Isuzu’s XTRM motor oil. Along with the oil change, mechanics can also produce a “health report” for customers, too.

Car Clubs Compete for Most Efficient Driver in This Year's Isuzu Fuel Economy Challenge

The Isuzu Fuel Economy Challenge returned this year, and this time, it’s the various Isuzu clubs that took the spotlight. The first leg had the mu-X Owners of the Philippines (mu-X OP) compete while the second leg had Team Isuzu Pilipinas, and the third, Team Isuzu Car Enthusiasts.

Twelve representatives of each club competed to eek out the most mileage out of the Isuzu mu-X RZ4E and D-Max RZ4E driving around a 4.2-kilometer course around the Isuzu Philippines headquarters, tracing the same route taken by last year’s fuel eco finalists.

IPC Vice President for Sales Yasuhiko Oyama reiterated the significance of holding a fun competition of this nature. “IPC has always valued, and strove for, not just power and reliability in all its vehicles, but also fuel efficiency. Our RZ4E Blue Power engine exemplifies our effort to produce the most fuel-efficient diesel engine, capable of producing more power for less fuel. But fuel efficiency can only be achieved if the driver practices the best habits of fuel-efficient driving. We also aim to educate drivers about practices that could decrease their fuel consumption,” he said.

“The 2019 Isuzu Fuel Eco Challenge Car Club Edition attempts to bring together the best drivers and the best engine, and the spirit of camaraderie that exists in every thriving car club makes the exchange of sound knowledge and driving skills from one owner to the other that much faster and more effective. Your members’ achievements would also serve as an inspiration and motivation for the motoring public in general. It is a very timely reminder that, despite the prevailing volatility of fuel prices in the market, fuel efficient drivers can still have control over their fuel expenses.” Mr. Oyama added.

With Shell as its official fuel partner, the 2019 Isuzu Fuel Eco Challenge Car Club Edition is IPC’s way of promoting and advocating fuel-efficient driving among existing Isuzu vehicle owners and eventual Isuzu vehicle buyers, as well as highlighting the efficiency, power, ride, comfort, and durability of the mu-X and D-Max.

The winners are:

• First Leg: Marc Catamio (mu-X Category) / Josel Kier Vincent Alano (D-Max Category)
• Second Leg: Bryan Paraligan (mu-X Category) / Frederick Eulogio (mu-X Category) / Richard Hernandez (D-Max Category)
• Third Leg: Paulo Remulla (mu-X Category) / Mark Quitoriano (D-Max Category)

Modern PUVs Now in Service in Meycauayan, Bulacan

Isuzu Philippines Corporation (IPC) turned over 16 units of its modernized public utility vehicles (PUVs) to Sampol-Bulac-Santa Maria-Meycauayan -Transport Service Cooperative (SBSMM-TSC) at the Activity Center of the City Hall Annex in Barangay Sapang Palay Proper in San Jose del Monte City in Bulacan province last July.

The modern Isuzu PUVs assembled using the Isuzu QKR77 platform with rear body designed and manufactured by Centro Manufacturing Corporation, are Class 2 PUVs fitted with air-conditioning system by CoolAire and a side-facing seat configuration.  The Isuzu QKR platform is assembled in the Philippines and is equipped with Euro IV-compliant 4JH1-TC diesel engine.

The new PUV body is compliant with Philippine National Standards (PNS 2126:2017). The passenger cabin floor-to-ceiling height and gangway width provides more space for passengers to move easily inside. The passenger door is safely situated on the right-hand side, facing the sidewalk. Other design features of the body include panoramic windows and windshields, full-body insulation, automatic door closer, and provisions for persons with disabilities.

For SBSMM-TSC, a well-established transport entity in Bulacan that operates over 600 jeepneys, its acquisition of Isuzu modern PUVs will not only provide world-class transport to its riding public but will also make possible for the cooperative to reap the numerous aftersales advantages of IPC’s vaunted “PUV-X” program.

The “PUV-X” Program enumerates Isuzu’s 10-Point Advantage:

1. Isuzu’s proven reliability, durability and efficiency
2. Experienced Body Builders
3. Accredited Accessories Suppliers
4. An unmatched 3 years or 150,000-kilometer warranty coverage
5. Nationwide dealership network of 43 outlets and counting
6. Expert Truck Executives (Truck Elites) to help customers
7. Nationwide parts availability, competent and trained service technicians, technical assistance from Japanese and Filipino engineers, and Isuzu Service Medic vans for roadside assistance anytime
8. Drivers and mechanics training
9. Extensive fleet management system
10. All-around customer assistance.

The 16 modern PUVs that SBSMM-TSC is now using are the latest additions in support of the government’s efforts to modernize all PUVs by June 2020, as embodied in the PUV Modernization Program (PUVMP) that envisions the replacement of some 200,000 PUVs nationwide 15 years and older with new, safe and environmentally friendly vehicles.