Automotive

Leading mobility company inspires Filipinos to advance toward limitless possibilities with new commercial vehicle built for their needs

(L-R) Toyota Motor Philippines (TMP) First Vice President for Vehicle Sales Operations Danny Cruz, TMP Senior Vice President Masahiro Haoka, TMP President Masando Hashimoto, TMP Vice Chairman Dr. David Go, Toyota Motor Asia Regional Executive Chief Engineer Jurachart Jongusuk, and TMP Executive Vice President Jing Atienza

The Next Generation Tamaraw was formally introduced by Toyota Motor Philippines (TMP) at a lavish ceremony that took place concurrently in eight sites around the country. A new era of transformative mobility was introduced to audiences in Makati City, Quezon City, Pasay City, Pampanga, Laguna, Cebu City, Davao City, and Cagayan de Oro City, as well as those watching via the online livestream, when the mobility company unveiled the various forms and conversions of its new commercial vehicle.

Because of its high quality and adaptable design, the Toyota Tamaraw is a well-known brand that has been associated with dependability and longevity for many generations of Filipinos. In response to the ever-evolving needs of the Philippine market, TMP has created the Next Generation Tamaraw, redesigned for the current day as a multi-purpose people and products mover both for commercial and personal use. At the Toyota Motor Philippines facility in Santa Rosa, Laguna, it is manufactured locally.

The Next Generation Tamaraw: Built for the New Era

The Next Generation Tamaraw is a true testament to Toyota’s commitment to people empowerment and nation-building by delivering innovations while staying true to its roots. It is built on Toyota’s global IMV platform, retaining the same DNA as the Tamaraw that plied Philippine roads in the 1990s and early 2000s. As the Philippine market continued to evolve, so did the needs of various enterprises and individuals, leading to the development of the Next Generation Toyota Tamaraw.

TMP President Masando Hashimoto

“We sat down and communicated with potential customers to ask what they look for in the Tamaraw. Hearing their comments and requests face-to-face regarding our vehicles inspired and reminded me and our team to make ever-better cars,” shared TMP President Masando Hashimoto during the grand launch.

Available in diesel and gas variants, the Next Generation Tamaraw offers multiple body styles for different passenger and cargo requirements. The diesel variants are powered by a fuel-efficient 2.4L 2GD-FTV engine tailored for heavy-duty tasks, while the gas variants are equipped with a reliable 2.0L 1TR-FE engine.

2.4 Utility Van DSL M/T LWB variant

During the grand launch, various configurations of the Next Generation Toyota Tamaraw’s original equipment variants were introduced, including the long wheelbase (LWB) Dropside and LWB Utility Van, which will be available for retail in January 2025; and the LWB Aluminum Cargo, which will have its commercial release in March. These variants were shown to address diverse uses, highlighting their customizability.

Retail sales for the short wheelbase (SWB) variants of the Utility Van, Dropside, and Aluminum Cargo will start at a later date.

Tamaraw Camper RV

Soon to arrive conversions Ambulance, Patrol Van, and Refrigerated Van were also exhibited, showing the Next Generation Tamaraw’s versatility. Other special conversions soon to be available for order such as the Food Truck, Mobile Service Vehicle, and Camper RV were also showcased, displaying the conversion capabilities of TMP in partnership with Toyota Mobility Solutions Philippines (TMSPH).

“The possibilities for this vehicle are truly endless. These possibilities, which will have a lasting effect on the lives of Filipinos now and in the future, is what we envision in our tagline, Abante, Posible,” added Hashimoto.

TMP First Vice President for Vehicles Sales Operations Danny Cruz

TMP First Vice President for Vehicles Sales Operations Danny Cruz shared during the marketing presentation, “As explained by Chief Engineer Jira, the Next Generation Tamaraw transforms to the body style best suited for your needs. It can convert into anything we can imagine. We made sure we truly knew our customers by going to small and medium business owners all over the country to understand their mobility challenges.”

In-house conversions such as the Utility Van, Dropside, and Aluminum Cargo offer features that cater to customers’ everyday commercial or even personal needs.

The Utility Van’s spacious interior, which can be maximized by folding the seats, makes it perfect for transporting goods or people comfortably. It also has a built-in rear A/C.

The Dropside‘s large deck space, high panel height, and three-side panel access allows easy loading and unloading of various goods.

The Aluminum Cargo is designed to carry both dry and wet goods with its aluminum interior and exterior panels, ensuring durability and reliability in all conditions.

Competitive Pricing for the Practical Pinoy

The Next Generation Toyota Tamaraw starts at PHP 937,000 for the 2.4 Dropside DSL M/T LWB variant. TMP Chairman Alfred V. Ty disclosed during the Tamaraw Roll-off Ceremony on November 28 that TMP will later offer a gas-powered SWB variant that will start below PHP 800,000.

2.4 GL Dropside DSL A/T LWB variant

The top-of-the-line 2.4 GL Dropside DSL A/T LWB variant, meanwhile, is available at PHP 1,075,000. It has a max output of 150/3,400 ps/rpm and a max torque of 400/1,600-2,000 Nm/rpm. It also comes with safety features such as driver and passenger airbags, Anti-lock Brake System (ABS) and Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD).

The 2.4 Aluminum Cargo DSL M/T LWB and 2.4 Utility Van DSL M/T LWB are priced at PHP 1,041,000 and PHP 1,142,000, respectively.

Simple and Easy Ownership and Usership Experience

TMP also worked closely with Toyota Financial Services Philippines to make the customer acquisition experience for the Next Generation Toyota Tamaraw easy with multiple options such as low downpayment and flexible payment schemes, including weekly payments.

Customers can look forward to a simple and customizable insurance policy fitted to their needs through TMP’s various insurance partners.

Maintenance will also be a breeze with a fixed service discount voucher of PHP 1,200 for every Periodic Maintenance Service (PMS) up until the 40,000 KM check-up.

In addition to providing special conversions, TMSPH also provides additional solutions such as the On-Demand Shuttle System, Logistics Matching Service, and more to cater to different business’ needs.

Total Package for the Tamaraw

With affordable prices paired with after-sales, value chain, and mobility solutions services, TMP provides a complete package for the Tamaraw. “We want to cover every customer journey touchpoint, from purchase, to conversion, and all the way to maintenance. With this total package, we aim to make the customer experience hassle-free so our customers can focus on advancing toward their dreams,” Cruz added.

The Next Generation Toyota Tamaraw falls under the commercial vehicle segment, which accounts for 73.64 percent of the market share, according to the Chamber of Automotive Manufacturers of the Philippines, Inc. (CAMPI)’s 2024 Q3 report. This segment includes vehicles used by micro, small and medium-size enterprises (MSMEs), local government units (LGUs), logistics facilities, and many more.

Interested customers may already place a reservation for the Next Generation Toyota Tamaraw at any Toyota dealership nationwide. The complete list of Toyota dealers can be found on https://www.toyota.com.ph/dealer.

Customers can visit https://www.toyota.com.ph/next-generation-tamaraw or contact their local Toyota dealership to find out more information on the Next Generation Toyota Tamaraw.

Join the ToyotaPH community on Viber and follow Toyota Motor Philippines on Facebook, Instagram, and X, for the most recent information on Toyota events, promotions, and products.

The Kinto One full-service car lease package, which is the first in the nation to be made available to both individual consumers and business owners, is provided by Toyota Mobility Solutions Philippines (TMSPH). This subscription service offers a simple and adaptable driving experience without the difficulties some people associate with automobile ownership, catering to the changing demands of Filipinos.

Kinto One provides convenience for everyone, from business owners and corporate professionals who lead more active lifestyles to expats who are staying in the Philippines for a few years. Its extensive services, which include maintenance, insurance, paperwork management, and even roadside assistance, guarantee a smooth experience for both individual and corporate clients.

KINTO One Business covers the vehicle lifecycle from acquisition to disposal through Toyota’s Fleet Management services. This approach streamlines operations and reduces administrative burdens for business owners. On top of fleet management features, KINTO One also provides Fleet 360—a Toyota designed GPS tracking system that provides real time vehicle information, including location, status, vehicle condition, and monitoring of driver behavior.

KINTO One also empowers both customers and businesses with a wide range of mileage options from 10,000 to 30,000 kilometers per year for Kinto One Individual, and up to 40,000 kilometers per year for Kinto One Business paired with flexible leasing terms spanning 3 to 5 years. This flexibility allows customers to tailor their car leasing experience to match their lifestyle and upgrade preferences seamlessly.

This flexible strategy makes KINTO One an appealing substitute for conventional auto ownership, providing a dependable and effective mobility option specifically designed for the Philippine market.

KINTO One demonstrates Toyota’s dedication to influencing the direction of mobility in the Philippines as it maintains its position as the automotive industry leader in terms of innovation and dependability.

Examine Kinto One Leasing Options Now:

• Visit Our Website: Learn more about our leasing options and find the perfect vehicle for you at www.toyota-mobilitysolutions.ph/kinto-one.
• Call Us: Speak directly with our leasing experts at 0927-523-6992 for personalized assistance and answers to your questions.
• Email Us: Reach out to us at [email protected] for more information or to schedule a consultation.

Select Toyota dealerships to offer the assistance from October 31 to November 3

This Undas season, Toyota Motor Philippines (TMP) prioritizes customer safety by providing free emergency roadside assistance from October 31 to November 3.

The following participating dealerships are offering free assistance to drivers en route to their destinations:

Customers can go to https://www.toyota.com.ph/promos/toyota-motorist-assistance-campaign-emergency-roadside-assistance-undas-2024 for additional details.

Join the ToyotaPH Viber community and follow Toyota Motor Philippines on Facebook and Instagram and X to receive updates on Toyota events, promotions, and products.

In photo (from left) are Department of Trade and Industry Secretary Ma. Cristina Aldeguer-Roque, Department of Interior and Local Government Secretary Juanito Victor Remulla, Special Assistant to the President for Investment and Economic Affairs Frederick Go, TMP Executive Vice President for Manufacturing Yasuhiro Kutsuki, Department of Transportation Secretary Jaime Bautista, Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., First Lady of the Philippines Louise Araneta-Marcos, Toyota Asia Region CEO Masahiko Maeda, TMP President Masando Hashimoto, TMP Vice Chairman Dr. David Go, and TMP First Vice President for Corporate Affairs Josephine Villanueva during the company’s visit at the Malacañan Palace.

At Malacañan Palace, Philippine President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. was recently shown Toyota Motor Philippines Corporation’s (TMP) future Next Generation Tamaraw and a hydrogen-powered concept car. The occasion emphasized TMP’s dedication to economic growth, sustainable mobility solutions, and the advancement of the regional auto manufacturing sector.

In particular, the recent PHP 5.5 billion investment in the production of the Philippine-made Next Generation Tamaraw, also known regionally as the Toyota Innovative International Multi-Purpose Vehicle (IMV) 0 (Zero), was praised by President Marcos for Toyota’s ongoing investment in the Philippines. In addition to enabling Mobility for All through the easily convertible Tamaraw, this investment includes vehicle production, parts localization, and the development of a new in-house vehicle conversion capability, further solidifying TMP’s contributions to maintaining the viability of the nation’s automotive and parts manufacturing industries.

President Marcos expressed his appreciation for Toyota’s continued investment in the Philippines, particularly the recent PHP 5.5 billion-investment in the production of the Philippine-made Next Generation Tamaraw, also known regionally as the Toyota Innovative International Multi-Purpose Vehicle (IMV) 0 (Zero). This investment encompasses vehicle production, parts localization, and the establishment of a new in-house vehicle conversion capability, further solidifying TMP’s contributions to sustaining the viability of automotive and parts manufacturing industries in the country and furthermore enabling Mobility for All through the easily convertible, Tamaraw.

DEMONSTRATING CARBON NEUTRALITY COMMITMENT. Toyota Motor Philippines showcases to President Marcos and the First Lady Liza Marcos the Corolla Cross H2 Concept, an internal combustion engine vehicle that is powered by hydrogen and emits virtually zero carbon dioxide.

During the courtesy call of Toyota Motor Asia and TMP’s top officials at the Palace, the mobility leader displayed prototype conversion units of the Tamaraw, demonstrating its versatility and adaptability to the needs of Filipinos. Returning as a light commercial vehicle, TMP presented its aim to revive this iconic model into the next ‘national car’ by catering to specialized conversion needs of various Philippine Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) and individuals.

At the same event, President Marcos received a letter of intent from TMP for its planned donation of five (5) Tamaraw units, which will be converted and turned over to the government in 2025. These include five (5) ambulances which will be used to support various mobility needs through the “Lab For All” health program of the First Lady Louise Araneta-Marcos.

CREATING MOBILITY FOR ALL. TMP President Masando Hashimoto presents the Ambulance conversion unit of the Next Generation Tamaraw that will support the First Lady’s “Lab For All” health program.

Reinforcing Toyota’s global commitment to Carbon Neutrality, the company introduced its “Beyond Zero” movement to the government. This corporate initiative supports the Philippine government’s direction toward a clean energy and low carbon economy transition, aligning with key national policies related to the transportation sector such as the Electric Vehicle Industry Development Act (EVIDA) and Philippine Energy Plan.

Underscoring its multi-pathway approach to decarbonization, TMP also used the occasion to present the Corolla Cross H2 Concept developed by Toyota GAZOO Racing (TGR) in Japan. This Hydrogen Internal Combustion Engine Vehicle (HICEV) utilized hydrogen gas supplied by a local producer and filled through a Hydrogen Refueling Station (HRS) exclusively imported from an end-use application provider in Malaysia.

“For Toyota’s point of view, we would like to provide the most suitable vehicle technology for the country’s specific energy strategy. Matching multi-pathways with energy, Toyota has many powertrains available and currently being developed,” said Toyota Asia Region chief executive officer Masahiko Maeda.

In addition to acknowledging the nation’s wealth of resources, TMP highlighted how diversifying energy sources may foster the growth of associated industries and support the decarbonization objectives of other sectors, such as transportation. Hydrogen has the potential to be one of the cutting-edge alternative energy sources that offers the possibility of zero carbon dioxide (CO₂) emissions, thanks to Toyota’s most extensive selection of xEV powertrain technology.

TMP said it is diversifying sustainable mobility with xEV usership services and investigating the advantages of data solutions and connected technology for travel or logistic efficiency resulting in CO₂ reduction, in addition to its commitment to decarbonize the entire vehicle life cycle, from sourcing raw materials to manufacturing, distribution, and recycling automobiles and batteries.

CARRYBOY Philippines, the leading name in automotive accessories and modifications, is proud to announce its latest cutting-edge products and innovations in body building using fiber glass technology. Renowned for durability, versatility, and style, Carryboy continues to redefine the vehicle customization industry with its world-class offerings for SUVs, pickup trucks, and utility vehicles.

At the forefront of these innovations is the Chassis-Mount Rear Fiber Glass Body, a lightweight yet durable solution that enhances vehicle performance without sacrificing strength. Designed for heavy-duty applications, this product offers superior resistance to corrosion, making it ideal for industries requiring reliable and robust transport solutions. The seamless finish and custom-fit design offer a sleek, professional look that enhances the overall aesthetics of any vehicle. The exhibit features CARRYBOY Ambulance ABL-MSL, Eco-Bus, Touring Canopy, Mobile Kiosk and container 1050 all made from fiber glass.

Complementing the chassis-mount body is the highly functional Body Rear Drawers, a must-have accessory for SUVs and pickups. These fiber glass-based drawers provide unparalleled organization and space-saving capabilities. Designed with the modern adventurer in mind, they allow easy access to tools, gear, and equipment, maximizing storage while maintaining a sleek appearance. Whether for professional use or recreational off-roading, these drawers offer the perfect blend of convenience and innovation.

Beyond these two flagship products, CARRYBOY is also showcasing an array of canopies, utility boxes, and roof racks that exemplify their commitment to quality and customer satisfaction. Each product is crafted with precision, ensuring that vehicle owners get not only aesthetic upgrades but functional, long-lasting solutions to meet their needs.

“CARRYBOY has always been at the forefront of innovation in automotive accessories. Our fiber glass products, particularly the Chassis-Mount Rear and Body Rear Drawers, are designed to meet the demands of the Philippine market, where ruggedness and versatility are key,” said Jun N. Ylagan, President and CEO of CARRYBOY Philippines. “We are committed to providing our customers with high-quality products that enhance both the form and function of their vehicles.”

With years of expertise and a reputation for excellence, CARRYBOY Philippines is the trusted choice for car owners, businesses, and industries seeking top-tier vehicle accessories. From off-road enthusiasts to utility vehicle operators, the brand offers solutions that blend innovation, durability, and design.

For more information about CARRYBOY Philippines and their latest products, visit www.carryboy.ph or follow them on social media for updates.

Indonesian Andika Rama comes in second in the Individual Championship,
Team Indonesia comes in first place in the Country Championship

At the Connexion Conference and Event Centre in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, 15 of the best e-Motorsports racers in the region squared off in the thrilling finale of the TOYOTA GAZOO Racing (TGR) GT Cup Asia 2024. In three thrilling races on top-tier circuits, racers from Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore, and Thailand fought for the title of Asia Champion and the opportunity to represent the region in the TGR GT Cup Global Finals in Amsterdam in December.

After several thrilling races, Taj Izrin Aiman of Malaysia won the TGR GT Cup Asia 2024 Individual Championship with a total of 65 points, earning a well-earned triumph. Andika Rama of Indonesia, the reigning 2023 Individual Champion, finished in second place with 57 points, demonstrating unwavering perseverance. Moreno Pratama, another Indonesian, finished third on the podium with 48, his first appearance in the Asia finals. Rama’s and his colleagues’ steady play also helped Indonesia win the coveted Country Championship title.

The competition, held on Gran Turismo 7 for PlayStation®5 (PS5®) and PlayStation®4 (PS4®), saw a blend of strategic prowess, precision driving, and bold moves across three races. Fans were treated to an unforgettable showdown on iconic tracks like Sardegna Windmills, Nürburgring Grand Prix (GP), and Fuji International Speedway.

“The heart of Toyota, and GAZOO Racing GT Cup Asia has always been about fostering a community of excellence rooted in our Japanese practice of Kaizen, or Continuous Improvement. In this fifth edition, it is inspiring to witness not only the ongoing enthusiasm from our drivers and supporters but also the technological advancements driven by e-Motorsports. We’re excited to contribute to this growth in the region as racers showcase exceptional talent and help shape the future of e-motorsports,” said Toyota Motor Asia (TMA) General Manager Jaja Ishibashi. “A heartfelt congratulations to all the racers for their remarkable performance today, and all the best to Aiman and Rama as they advance to the Global Finals!”

TMA General Manager for Vehicle Design Engineering Panat Leelavansuk shared, “From mastering iconic tracks that reflect real-world conditions to integrating insights from actual motorsports, the skill level on display from all participants is impressive. With the support of Razer’s headsets this year, racers were also able to communicate with their teams, exchanging tips and strategies. I’m thrilled to witness the passion and dedication of today’s youth, who are shaping the future of e-sports, as showcased in this year’s GAZOO Racing GT Cup Asia. Congratulations to all the winners—your talent is setting new benchmarks for competitive gaming!”

Three Thrilling Races Define the 2024 Regional Finals

With five stunning livery designs that represent each country, the competition began with sunny weather on TGR GT Asia Cup’s first-ever rally track, the Sardegna Windmills circuit, where drivers took the wheel of the GR Yaris. Rama took the lead early on, only facing slight competition in the early laps before finishing as the winner of the first race. Throughout most of the race, the most intense action occurred mid-race, where drivers from Malaysia, the Philippines, and Indonesia battled it out. A close fight for all, the race ended with lap timings for all drivers separated by less than half a minute.

The second race at Nürburgring GP featured drivers in the GR Corolla Morizo Edition ’22, with a reverse grid for the top eight finishers from race one, placing the first race winner in eighth position, and so on. Pratama used this to his advantage – placing eighth in the first race, Pratama stayed within the top three positions throughout the circuit, eventually coming out on top as the second race’s winner. Malaysia’s team strategy also worked in their favor, with two of their driver’s taking up second and third position. Rain also came into play for this race, creating a challenging track that led to many position changes for several drivers.

The final showdown tested racers’ strategies to the limit with the technically challenging Fuji International Speedway, known for its tough last sector coming out into the straights. Driving on the GR010 Hybrid ’21, Pratama battled fiercely to take fourth place from Malaysia’s Iqbal Suji, with both drivers employing strategic offensive and defensive maneuvers. The Indonesian driver ultimately made his move, overtaking in the final laps of the race. This third race also saw a heavy amount of contact, with more than one racer spinning out and resulting penalties served. Opting for soft tires at the start, while many of his competitors chose mediums, Aiman maintained his lead and secured the win through a well-timed pit stop strategy.

“I’m truly at a loss for words. Although I faced technical difficulties and couldn’t finish the race last year, I’m overwhelmed with pride that my dedication and training have paid off, leading to a victory at the TGR GT Cup Asia 2024,” said an emotional Aiman. “I’m excited to continue training with Andika Rama as we prepare for the Global Cup in Amsterdam. A heartfelt thank you to Toyota Motor Asia for this incredible opportunity!”

“I’m honored to be representing Asia once again this year! Competing against Taj Aiman was an incredible challenge—he’s an exceptional competitor. I pushed myself to the limit, but his consistency and strategy across all three races were unmatched. I’m excited to have him as a teammate as we prepare for the Global Finals, and I can’t wait to make Asia proud,” said Andika Rama, who’s representing Asia for the second time this year.

Special awards were also given in recognition of drivers’ exceptional performances, with Aiman cinching Driver of the Day, the Philippines’ Russel Reyes taking home Best Racecraft and Rama winning Fastest Race Pace.

The TGR GT Cup Asia Finals 2024 welcomed Razer Inc. as its official headset partner, equipping racers with wired Razer BlackShark V2 X e-sports headset, ensuring seamless, clear, and comfortable communication with their teams.

The first five places in qualifying rounds, bonus points for the fastest laps in each of the three races, and the total points gained from finishing positions in all three races were used to determine the winner. A monetary prize of USD 8,000, USD 4,500, and USD 3,000 was awarded to the top three individuals and teams, respectively. With their wins assured, Aiman and Andika will compete against the top e-Motorsports racers in the world at the TGR GT Cup Global Finals on December 6 in Amsterdam, representing Asia.

Please click here to rewatch the TGR GT Cup Asia 2024 Regional Finals. You may download high-resolution photos from the Asia Cup Final event here. 

Racers battle it out to claim the top spot in their own category

Racers who took part in the second race weekend are all smiles during the awarding ceremony

The second racing weekend of Toyota Motor Philippines’ premier motorsports event, the TOYOTA GAZOO Racing Philippine Cup (TGR Philippine Cup), has come to a conclude. Everyone enjoyed watching the exciting show that took place at the Clark International Speedway on September 28. Fans of racing and spectators alike witnessed heart-pounding excitement as competitors from a variety of backgrounds battled furiously in the sprint and endurance events.

TMP President Masando Hashimoto spoke about his love of driving a race car and his excitement about competing in the Novice Class during the opening ceremony.

“I am reminded of Toyota Motor Corporation Chairman Akio Toyoda’s rallying cry of “We Love Cars” and can confidently say that motorsports is well and alive in the Philippines, and it will only get bigger with your support and passion,” he shared.

TMP President Masando Hashimoto addresses spectators during his opening remarks

Seasoned racers under the Promotional, Sporting, and Super Sporting classes returned to the track once again to fight and claim the top spot in one of the races.

Numerous overtakes occurred throughout the races to put audiences on the edge of their seats

Throughout the day, racers navigated sunny conditions during the morning session, while the afternoon brought overcast skies. Shifting weather challenged drivers to showcase their skill and bravery, delivering adrenaline-pumping action and intense, bumper-to-bumper racing for the fans.

For Race Weekend 2, two sprint races and an endurance race took place.

TMP President Masando Hashimoto and Executive Vice President for Marketing Division Jose Maria Atienza with the Endurance Race 2 Novice Class winners

Endurance Race 2 Promotional Class winners

Endurance Race 2 Sporting Class winners

Endurance Race 2 Super Sporting Class winners

Drifters Dane Cruz and Hanz Jimenez took lucky fans out for a shotgun ride

A GR Yaris owner takes their performance vehicle out on the track for the Car Club Track Day

Attendees also spent their time at the sponsors’ booths and the TGR GT Cup Experience booth

The track was brought to life with the roar of engines as car club members showcased their GR performance vehicles during the Car Club Track Day. The excitement continued on with thrilling hot laps and a captivating driving exhibition by renowned drifters Hanz Jimenez and Dane Cruz.

Lucky attendees from the public had the chance to ride shotgun and experience the adrenaline rush of drifting firsthand. Visitors also enjoyed various giveaways at the sponsors’ booths and engaged in the TGR GT Cup experience booth.

Barbie Almalbis brings back the 90’s on the stage at TGR Philippine Cup Race Weekend 2

The race weekend concluded on a high note with a live performance by Filipino singer Barbie Almalbis, followed by the awarding ceremony for the event’s winners which drew attention from the crowd as new winners stood on the podium.

Presented by Official Fuel Partner Petron, Official Tire Partner GT Radial, and Official Timekeeper Seiko, the TOYOTA GAZOO Racing Philippine Cup is in its second race weekend. AVT, 3M, Denso, myTOYOTA Wallet, Toyota Financial Services Philippines, ROTA, Tuason Racing, OMP, and Kinto One are further sponsors of this event.

November 9, 2024, is the last race weekend of the TGR Philippine Cup, and racing fans can expect an entertaining conclusion.

Visit  https://toyota.com.ph/tgrphilippines to learn more about the TGR Philippine Cup. For updates, join the Toyota PH Viber community, follow TOYOTA GAZOO Racing on Facebook and Instagram, and visit Toyota Motor Philippines’ official profiles on Facebook and Instagram, ToyotaMotorPH on Twitter.

Ceremonial inauguration of En Tsumugi ELV Dismantler Corporation. In photo (from left) are Mitsui & Co., Ltd. – Manila Branch Country Chairman Kazuhiro Nomura, Toyota Motor Philippines Corporation President Masando Hashimoto, Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) Technical Division Chief Joel Bolano, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Japan to the Philippines Kazuya Endo, Japan International Cooperation Agency Philippines Chief Representative Takema Sakamoto, En Tsumugi ELV Dismantler Corporation Lead Representative Riczon Hung, and Tsuruoka Co., Ltd. President and CEO Masaaki Tsuruoka.

Toyota, a leader in the automotive industry, has supported En Tsumugi ELV Dismantler Corporation, which is headquartered in Mexico, Pampanga, and is the nation’s first model end-of-life vehicle (ELV) dismantling plant.

En Tsumugi is a fully-owned enterprise of the Hung family, who also owns the nearby metal recycling businesses Supreme Mile Trading Corp. (SMTC) and CoroCrown Corporation. It originated from a pilot project funded by the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) and overseen by the Japanese ELV dismantler Tsuruoka Co., Ltd. A number of Japanese companies, such as Mitsui & Co., Ltd. and Toyota Motor Corporation (Toyota), offered technical support and business growth.

The establishment of En Tsumugi is a significant milestone in the Philippine automotive industry’s push for a responsible management system for ELVs, or those vehicles with components classified by the local authorities as waste. The facility, open to various car makes, will serve as a benchmark in further developing the local recycling industry while promoting environmental sustainability and the adoption of best practices and foreign expertise.

Through its local unit, Toyota Motor Philippines Corporation (TMP), Toyota’s involvement in the project includes providing technical support in various areas, such as environmental compliance, facility design, dismantling methodology, equipment requirements, and hazardous waste management.

Turnover of TMP’s donated ELV units to En Tsumugi at TMP Manufacturing Plant in Santa Rosa City, Laguna. In photo are En Tsumugi Chief Financial Officer John Hung (second from left) together with Toyota Motor Philippines Corporation General Administration officers.

Furthermore, TMP donated five (5) ELVs, including one hybrid electric vehicle, to En Tsumugi as training units for further equipping and enhancing of the facility’s capabilities.

Toyota Global 100 Dismantlers Project

“The establishment of a local ELV dismantler aligns with the goals of the ‘Toyota Global 100 Dismantlers Project,’ which aims to establish a network of proper ELV dismantling facilities worldwide,” said TMP President Masando Hashimoto during the inauguration ceremony of En Tsumugi in Pampanga.

The project seeks to address the environmental challenges posed by ELVs, such as pollution and resource depletion, by promoting proper dismantling and recycling practices, which also contributes to reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

Toyota certifies En Tsumugi as a proper ELV dismantling facility. In photo (from left) are Toyota Motor Philippines Corporation President Masando Hashimoto, En Tsumugi ELV Dismantler Corporation (En Tsumugi) Chief Financial Officer John Hung, En Tsumugi Lead Representative Riczon Hung, and En Tsumugi Chief Executive Officer Paulo Hung.

En Tsumugi received a Certificate of Gratitude from TMP during the same ceremony. Hashimoto further stated that En Tsumugi, after facilities of a similar nature in Thailand, Vietnam, and Malaysia, is the fourth (4th) ELV dismantler in Southeast Asia to be granted this certification.

As part of its efforts to “Establish a Recycling-based Society and System” under the Toyota Environmental Challenge 2050, which was globally introduced in 2015, Toyota is putting the Toyota Global 100 Dismantlers Project into action

Signing of mobility sponsorship agreement between Toyota Motor Philippines Corporation (TMP)and the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), co-chair of the APMCDRR’s Philippine inter-agency committee.

In photos (from left) are DENR Assistant Secretary and APMCDRR 2024 Program Committee ChairDr. Noralene Uy, TMP President Masando Hashimoto, DENR Secretary Maria Antonia Yulo-Loyzaga,and United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNDRR) Regional Office for Asia and the Pacific ChiefHon. Marco Toscano-Rivalta.

As one of the official mobility partners for the 2024 Asia-Pacific Ministerial Conference on Disaster Risk Reduction (APMCDRR), which will be hosted by the Philippines in collaboration with the United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNDRR), the leading company in the industry, Toyota Motor Philippines Corporation (TMP) announces its participation. About 3,000 world leaders and delegates will come together for the conference, which will be held from October 14–18, 2024, at the Philippine International Convention Center (PICC) in Pasay City, to discuss important catastrophe risk reduction measures in the Asia-Pacific area.

During the APMCDRR Partners Briefing and Memorandum of Agreement Signing event in Makati City, TMP recently formalized its partnership with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), which is the co-chair of the APMCDRR’s Philippine inter-agency committee. In accordance with this agreement, TMP will serve the transportation needs of conference attendees, including ministers from UN member states and different international stakeholders, by providing a fleet of 25 Toyota Camry Hybrid Electric Vehicles (HEVs) and two Toyota Coaster buses.

TMP President Masando Hashimoto (front, left) shakes hand with DENR Secretary Maria Antonia Yulo-Loyzaga (right).

This partnership underscores TMP’s strong support to promoting sustainable mobility solutions and contributing to disaster risk reduction efforts in the region.

“Toyota believes that electrified mobility is one of the pathways towards a sustainable future for all. We are committed to help address climate change and promote climate-related risk reduction,” said TMP President Masando Hashimoto.

“TMP is honored to be part of one of the most important gatherings in the Asia-Pacific. We wish for the success of the 2024 APMCDRR in leading us with appropriate strategies, making us a region of resilient nations.”

The Toyota Camry hybrid is the minister shuttle of choice for the APMCDRR.

Toyota is committed to become carbon neutral by 2050 and supports the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) on a global scale. The company is exhibiting its commitment to mitigating its environmental footprint and advancing sustainable transportation options by offering a fleet of hybrid electric vehicles.

In the Asia-Pacific area, the APMCDRR serves as the main forum for fostering coordination and collaboration on disaster risk reduction. The UNDRR is working with the host nation to organize this biennial conference. It seeks to expedite the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction 2015–2030’s implementation.