Automotive

Enzo Ison, Russel Reyes and Michael Velasquez to represent Philippines in 2026 TGR Asia Esports GT Championship

Team Philippines: (L-R) Enzo Ison, Russel Reyes and Michael Velasquez

Enzo Ison, Russel Reyes and Michael Velasquez will be representing the Philippines at the 2026 TOYOTA GAZOO Racing Asia Esports GT Championships in Bangkok, Thailand, after rising above the field at the National Finals of the 2026 TGR Philippines Esports GT Championship.

The National Finals, held last September 27 at the SMX Convention Center in Pasay City, brought together the top 10 Sporting Class and top 10 Junior Class players, chosen from more than 400 sim racers who joined the qualifiers. The finalists competed against each other in Gran Turismo, where they went head-to-head in different cars and tracks over four races.

Below are the podium finishers of the National Finals:

TMP Senior Vice President for Marketing Division Sherwin Chua-Lim (leftmost) and TMP President Masando Hashimoto (rightmost) with Junior Class Winners (L-R) Luth Ifamy, Enzo Ison and Chester Jordan Ilog

TMP Senior Vice President for Marketing Division Sherwin Chua-Lim (leftmost) and TMP President Masando Hashimoto (rightmost) with Sporting Class Winners (L-R) Luis Antonio Moreno, Russel Reyes and Michael Velasquez

Competitors in both categories navigated four grueling rounds, taking the wheel of distinct Toyota vehicles across various tracks: maneuvering the GR Corolla around the real world Autódromo de Interlagos in Brazil, powering the GR Yaris through the fictional dirt track Sardegna Windmills, steering the GR Supra across the technical Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya in Spain, and pushing the GR010 Hybrid to its limits on the challenging Nürburgring in Germany. Drivers faced unpredictable weather conditions in the third and fourth races, transforming the final legs into intense trials of grit and vehicle mastery.

Junior Class Champion Enzo Ison

In the Junior Class, Enzo Ison put on a dominant display throughout all four rounds. Ison secured pole position at Interlagos in Race 1, where he commanded the lead all the way to the checkered flag. Navigating the reverse grid from 5th position at Sardegna Windmills in Race 2, he climbed to P2 by the fourth lap before prevailing in a thrilling three-car battle against Samuel Rey Icalia and Chester Jordan Ilog for the victory. During a heated leg in Barcelona, Ison maintained composure amidst track spins, leading every lap to secure a convincing 17-second triumph. Facing adversity at the Nürburgring after a miscalculated turn relegated him to P8 while Ilog opened a 10-second advantage. Ison launched a fierce comeback, reclaiming the top position in lap four to win by 54 seconds.

Sporting Class Champion Russel Reyes

Meanwhile, the Sporting Class action delivered an exhilarating showdown between Russel Reyes and Luis Antonio Moreno. Reyes thwarted Moreno’s dramatic final-corner strike at Interlagos, followed by another masterclass in defensive driving in the closing lap in Barcelona. In Race 2 at Sardegna Windmills, Michael Velasquez capitalized on the reverse grid matrix to hold the front position from the opening lap, while Reyes carved his way from P5 to P2 but fell short of overtaking. In the final leg at the Nürburgring, Victor Ancheta surged ahead late in lap one and built a 10-second cushion via an extended pit strategy, only for a penalty to demote him to P6, allowing Reyes to regain control and cross the line 17 seconds clear of the field.

“It was inspiring to see our finalists push themselves lap after lap at the National Finals. The enthusiasm around sim racing in the country keeps growing, and it shows how many Filipinos share the thrill and joy of motorsports,” shared TMP Senior Vice President for Marketing Division Sherwin Chua-Lim.

Sporting Class 2nd Placer Michael Velasquez

Ison and Reyes each received a cash prize of PHP 100,000 and a slot in the Asia Finals as the champions of their respective classes. As the runner up with the higher number of points, Velasquez from the Sporting Class secured his spot as the third representative in Team Philippines and received a PHP 75,000 cash prize.

“To Enzo, Russel, and Michael, we wish you the best of luck as you carry the Philippine flag in Bangkok. We are behind you as you go out there and push the limits for better,” Chua-Lim added.

Asked about how they feel about winning the National Finals and representing the Asia Finals, Ison, 16, shared, “I feel really great and thankful for winning in the Junior Class and having the chance to represent the country for the third time. The preparations that we made for this have certainly paid off once again. This year, we will train harder than ever to get the best results for the Asia Finals.”

Ison previously represented the Philippines in the Asia Finals in 2024 and 2025. He finished second overall in the Philippine National Finals in 2025 and 2024 and was the Junior Class champion in 2023 and 2022. He also currently races in the Tamaraw Class of the TGR Philippine Cup under the TOYOTA GAZOO Racing Philippines Team.

“I feel really great about winning the Sporting Class this year. I felt like I had improved from how I was when I previously joined. Being gone for a year gave me a chance to reset and rethink how I race. I think this played a huge role in securing the win. I’m also honored to be one of the drivers to represent the Philippines in the Asia Regional finals. I feel very comfortable and prepared to race against other nations, after learning from my many mistakes from the past. I can feel that I am a stronger sim racer than ever,” shared Reyes, 25.

Reyes, another Asia Finals veteran, represented the Philippines in 2024, 2023 and 2022. He placed third overall in the Philippine National Finals in 2024, was the overall champion in 2023, and the Sporting Class runner-up in 2022.

Meanwhile, first-time Asia Finals participant Velasquez shared, “It’s an honor to represent Team Philippines after finishing P2 in Sporting Class and the third most overall points in the TGR Philippines GT Esports Championship 2026. I’m really ecstatic to work together alongside Russel and Enzo and I look forward to us learning from each other and growing as a team.”

Ison, Reyes and Michael will face sim racers from across the region at the TGR Asia Esports GT Championships in Bangkok, Thailand on November 14 to 15, 2026.

Filipino motorsports fans can show their support for Team Philippines as they take on the region’s top sim racers by watching the Asia Finals livestream on the TOYOTA GAZOO Racing Philippines Facebook Page.

For more information on the TGR Philippines Esports GT Championship and other TGR Philippines products and events, follow TGR Philippines on Facebook, Instagram, X, TikTok and YouTube.

Riders across Visayas gather for a celebration of shared passion, community, heroism, and women empowerment on the road

[From L-R] Mr. Reynold Casia, Department Manager-Visayas Field Sales; Mr. Virgilio Cachero Jr., General Manager-Customer Relations & SCM Office; Mr. Jomel Jerezo, Vice President/Operating Head-Sales & Customer Relations/SCM Operations; Mr. Takeshi Kobayashi, President; Mr. Kei Yanai, Executive Coordinator-Sales & Customer Relations/SCM Operations; Ms. Noelyn Quiaonza, National Sales Manager-MC Sales Department

“The Luzon leg gave us a great start after showing us how strong and passionate the riding community has become. Bringing this convention to Visayas is our way of continuing that celebration and extending our appreciation to more Honda riders from across the region,” said Takeshi Kobayashi, President of Honda Philippines Inc.

The event brought together motorcycle enthusiasts, content creators, and media partners for a full throttle gathering that goes beyond the shared love for motorcycle riding. It offered exciting activities aimed at fostering meaningful connections, creating more experiences, and strengthening a more inclusive riding community.

As part of the Riders Convention activities, we incorporated the Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives of HPI, for the first time.  Carrying the banner of bayanihan, the convention featured a special Blood Letting Activity at the Main Hall of Mactan Expo.  Honda riders, motorcycle club members, event partners, and attendees became real-life heroes as they donated blood that could save lives.  More than just a gathering, the event captured the true joy of riding with a purpose – reinforcing Honda’s commitment to giving back to the community by creating a meaningful and sustainable CSR programs.

To further enjoy the Honda experience, riders engaged in test rides, attended safety seminars, and offered Learn-to-Ride experience to strengthen the safety image of motorcycle riding and create confidence especially to female riders.

Furthermore, the event re-introduced the convenience and latest innovations of the new Honda mobile application, the MyHonda+ Philippines.  Various interactive activities were also conducted, each capturing the joy and excitement of riding, while showcasing how Honda brings together performance, innovation, and quality in every ride.

The Visayas Leg also served as the premier public launch of The Click125 Street. The latest model was introduced as the newest addition to the Click125 series, delivering The Game-Changer Upgrade made to redefine the riding experience, with its sporty style, performance, and advanced features.

Through the Honda Riders Convention, it also celebrated the growing presence and influence of women on the road. During the program, female riders took center stage to share inspiring stories and experiences about their passion for motorcycle riding. They emphasized how motorcycle riding can be a source of empowerment, confidence, and freedom.

More than fun-filled activities and a vehicle showcase, the event was a sincere way of gratitude and appreciation for the riders’ continued trust and support for Honda. As HPI continues to build a stronger presence in the motorcycle industry, it looks forward to delivering more quality motorcycles and creating more opportunities that welcome more women and next-generation riders in the riding community.

For more product information, visit www.hondaph.com. Stay updated on HPI’s newest products and promos by following Honda Philippines, Inc. on Facebook at facebook.com/hondaph, Instagram at instagram.com/hondaph_mc/, YouTube at Honda Philippines_Motorcycle, and TikTok at tiktok.com/@hondaphilippines. For a more convenient and seamless Honda ownership experience, download the NEW MyHonda+ Philippines mobile app. For inquiries, contact (02)-8581-6700 to 6799, and 0917-884-6632.

Catch the live event at the SMX Convention Center in Pasay City

Toyota Motor Philippines (TMP) is thrilled to announce the top 10 Sporting Class players and top 10 Junior Class players who will be competing in the upcoming National Finals of the 2026 TOYOTA GAZOO Racing Philippines Esports GT Championship.

This season, more than 400 sim racers across the country participated in the qualifiers, where players put in their fastest lap time around the Laguna Seca racetrack using the stock Toyota GR 86.

The TGR Philippines Esports GT Championship is the country’s premier sim racing tournament, which aims to provide aspiring racers with an avenue to kickstart their racing careers, as well as gather sim racing enthusiasts together to celebrate the thrill and joy of motorsports. Participants compete wheel-to-wheel in the game Gran Turismo.

Since it was launched in 2020, the TGR Philippines Esports GT Championship (formerly known as the GR GT Cup), has been pioneering competitive sim racing in the country, offering attractive prizes, and the opportunity to face against other sim racers in Asia and the world.

As a grassroots tournament, the series also bridges the gap between sim racing and real-life racing by transitioning winners of the competition to TMP’s premier racing series, the TGR Philippine Cup (formerly known as the Vios Cup).

Vying for a chance to make their racing dreams come true are the following players:

Witness these players push their limits for the better at the National Finals happening on September 27 at Function Room 1, 2^nd Floor, SMX Convention Center in Pasay City. The event is FREE and open to the public.

The champion of each class will be receiving a cash prize of PHP 100,000 and a slot in the Asia Finals, where they will go head-to-head with other sim racers in the region as part of Team Philippines. The runner-up of each class will be receiving PHP 75,000 and a chance at the third and final slot in Team Philippines. The final slot will be given to the runner-up with the higher number of points at the end of the National Finals.

Aside from the thrilling competition, fans can try their hand at the public sim racing rigs, and check out displays of the GR Yaris, GR Corolla, GR 86, and Tamaraw one-make-race car. The new GR merchandise lineup will also be available for purchase at the event for those who want to show off their brand love.

“The esports community has grown a lot since last season, where we only had 250 participants for the qualifiers. We are thrilled to see that there a more people getting into motorsports through sim racing, and we look forward to finding out who will be coming out on top at the National Finals,” shared First Vice President for Vehicle Sales Operations Elijah Marcial.

“We are especially encouraged by the strong participation in our Junior Category, which plays a vital role in our esports program by giving young racers an avenue to develop their skills, gain competitive experience, and pursue their passion for motorsports from an early age. Through initiatives like this, we hope to continue nurturing the next generation of Filipino racing talent,” Marcial added.

The 2026 TOYOTA GAZOO Racing Philippines Esports GT Championship National Finals will also be livestreamed on the TOYOTA GAZOO Racing Philippines Facebook Page.

For more information on the TGR Philippines Esports GT Championship and other TGR Philippines products and events, follow TGR Philippines on Facebook, Instagram, X, TikTok and YouTube.

Whatever your lifestyle, priorities, or mobility needs, there’s a Toyota for you! This September, Toyota is giving Filipinos more ways to find the vehicle that fits their world, with a fresh lineup of promotional offers designed to make Toyota ownership more within reach. Whether you’re looking for your first car, a practical and fuel-efficient partner for the daily drive, more space for the family, or a step toward electrified mobility, Toyota’s September deals offer greater freedom and choice across a wide range of mobility needs all backed by the quality, durability, and reliability customers have come to expect from Toyota.

This month’s offers give customers more ways to choose a Toyota that matches their priorities and budget.* Featured this September are some of Toyota’s most fuel-efficient, practical, and versatile models, giving customers the flexibility to find the right vehicle for every stage of life and confidently take on their daily drives, rain or shine.

Customers looking to make the most of their budget can also enjoy greater savings through Toyota’s Straight Cash offers. With cash discounts available on select vehicle variants, customers can drive home a brand-new Toyota for less and choose a vehicle that fits not only their needs, but also their budget, while enjoying the quality, durability, and reliability they can trust wherever the road takes them.

The Corolla Cross G HEV leads the September selection with Straight Cash savings of up to PHP 150,000. Its hybrid electric powertrain supports efficient day-to-day mobility, while the crossover body offers the elevated driving position, adaptable space, and easy maneuverability that give customers greater flexibility and freedom for both city routines and weekend plans.

For customers who need strength and utility, the Hilux 4×4 Conquest in M/T comes with Straight Cash savings of up to PHP 100,000 on the previous-generation model. Built to take on demanding work and active lifestyles, this trusted pickup combines durability, reliability, useful hauling capability, and the confidence to travel across changing road conditions.

Families seeking a more refined electrified ride can consider the Zenix Q HEV, offered with Straight Cash savings of up to PHP 150,000. Its spacious, thoughtfully appointed cabin makes longer trips more comfortable, while Toyota’s hybrid technology helps deliver smooth, efficient mobility for school runs, daily errands, and out-of-town journeys; helping families experience the joy of moving together.

The Vios XLE rounds out the featured models with Straight Cash savings of up to PHP 75,000. Compact enough for busy streets yet comfortable for everyday travel, the sedan offers straightforward operation, reliable performance, and practical ownership for commuters, young professionals, and small families alike, giving more Filipinos the freedom to move with confidence.

Other Toyota Models are also available through Straight Cash financing!

Wigo G– up to PHP 30,000

Raize G– up to PHP 40,000

Veloz V– up to PHP 30,000

Fortuner Q– up to PHP 30,000

Tamaraw – up to PHP 50,000

Yaris Cross S– up to PHP 50,000

GR Yaris– up to PHP 160,000

* This flexible payment option is available on select Toyota vehicles within the promo period, subject to terms, credit approval where applicable, and model availability.

That’s not all! Alongside flexible payment options on selected Toyota models, Toyota is taking ownership to the next level with exciting, limited time offers you won’t want to miss this month!

• FREE Periodic Maintenance Service (PMS) for selected Toyota models
• Exclusive Service Discount Vouchers for selected Toyota models
• Trade-in rebates of up to PHP 30,000, redeemable as a cash discount or for Toyota

Genuine Accessories

• Free One-Year Comprehensive Insurancefor select models.
• Toyota 5-year warranty for all brand-new vehicles

Make the most of your September drives and discover more ways to Move Your World with Toyota. Check out the full promo mechanics, available offers, and participating Toyota models here! https://www.toyota.com.ph/promos/ChooseYourDrive

Promo runs from September 12 – 30, 2026 only.

DTI Fair Trade Permit No. FTEB-267284 Series of 2026.

Visit your nearest Toyota dealership to learn more about the latest offers and take your preferred Toyota vehicle for a test drive. For latest updates on Toyota products, services, and promos, follow Toyota Motor Philippines on Facebook, Instagram and X, and join the ToyotaPH community on Viber.

Displays of different variants and conversions show the adaptability of the Tamaraw at the AFEX, PURVEYR Fair, PHILBEX Cebu, and DCPH Grandparents Day

Next Generation Toyota Tamaraw GL Dropside Variant

Since its introduction in 2024, the Next Generation Toyota Tamaraw has continued to deliver its promise to be the vehicle of choice for versatility. Its highly configurable platform is meant to be customized according to the needs and lifestyles of any business owner or individual. From passenger and cargo transport to refrigerated logistics and purpose-built mobile businesses, the Tamaraw can serve a wide range of uses depending on operational requirements. Paired with the proven Toyota QDR (quality, durability and reliability) and trusted aftersales service, it truly is the vehicle of choice for daily business operations.

This coming week, Toyota will demonstrate the versatility of the Next Generation Tamaraw across 4 events in Metro Manila and in Cebu. From September 9 to 12, Tamaraw will participate in the Asia Food Expo (AFEX) at the World Trade Center showcasing different business possibilities in the food and beverage industry.

On September 10 -13 at the IEC Convention Center Cebu, the Tamaraw will be at PHILBEX Cebu showcasing the vehicle as a work horse in the building and construction industry. Guests can see and experience the vehicle through test drives during this event.

Moreover, this weekend from September 12 – 13, the local creative community at the annual PURVEYR Fair will get to experience for the first time, a Tamaraw GL Dropside DJ booth. On the same dates, a Tamaraw GL Dropside can also be found on display at the Die Cast PH Grandparents Pit Stop event at Cash & Carry Makati, placing the Tamaraw in the diecast collector event, for collectors to see and take inspiration from.

Guests can go to any of the 4 events where Tamaraw will make its appearance and be able to find something about the Tamaraw that can pique their interest.

Make your “Abante, Posible” with the Toyota Tamaraw Refrigerator Van at AFEX 2026

Different configurations for different business requirements

At the AFEX, a trade show focused on food processing, packaging, handling machinery, equipment, and technology, Toyota is featuring four configurations: the Tamaraw Utility Van, Tamaraw GL Dropside, Tamaraw Wing Van, and Tamaraw Ref Van. On the other hand, the Philippine Building Construction Expo Cebu 2026 or PHILBEX Cebu will also see a Tamaraw GL Dropside variant, with test drives also being available. Recognizing the rapidly expanding construction and design sector in Cebu, PHILBEX Cebu is an event that continues to drive the Cebuano construction and design industry.

Get the chance to test drive the Next Generation Tamaraw at PHILBEX Cebu 2026

The two events are a perfect platform for the Tamaraw, highlighting its role as a nation building vehicle, allowing aspiring and current business owners to see the Tamaraw’s potential in being an integral part of operations in business industries.

Catch the Toyota Tamaraw GL Dropside DJ Booth at PURVEYR Fair 2026

Taking the Next Generation Tamaraw into more specialized applications

The Next Generation Tamaraw takes on a different character at PURVEYR Fair, where two units will demonstrate applications beyond conventional passenger and cargo transport. The two-day gathering of independent Filipino brands, creatives, and communities will see a Tamaraw GL Dropside converted into a DJ booth and a pop-up flower store, using the vehicle’s open rear section as the foundation for two very different mobile setups.

On September 12, the Tamaraw Dropside DJ booth will be featuring DJ sets from Waff, Roy De Borja, Okami, Average Bri, Nix Damn P! and J Dope. While on September 13, Okami, ADMV, Michiko, Nix Damn P!, Butta B, and Yela Renee will cap off the event with their performances.

A Tamaraw Food Truck will also be deployed at the fair in support of Waves For Water, demonstrating another way the vehicle can be converted into not only functional mobile business space but a medium for spreading a business’ advocacy.

See what the Tamaraw & the Philippine Diecast community has to offer at DCPH Grandparents Day Pit Stop

Eventgoers of the Diecast Car Collectors of the Philippines (DCPH) Grandparents Day Pit Stop will also have the chance to see a Tamaraw GL Dropside. The growing diecast community in the Philippines has also shown interest in the Next Generation Tamaraw, due to its modular and adaptable nature as a vehicle not only for business but also for artistic expression and leisure.

See the Next Generation Tamaraw and its different variants and conversions at AFEX on September 9-12 at the World Trade Center and PURVEYR Fair on September 12-13 at the World Trade Center Tent. Additionally, catch the Tamaraw displays at PHILBEX Expo 2026 on September 10-13 at the IEC Convention Center Cebu, and the DCPH Grandparents Day Pit Stop on September 12-13 at Cash & Carry Makati. Discover how the vehicle continues to help individuals start their “Abante, Posible” with Toyota.

Find out how you can experience the thrill and joy of moving together with the Next Generation Tamaraw by visiting https://www.toyota.com.ph/tamaraw.

Follow Toyota Motor Philippines on Facebook, Instagram and X, and join the ToyotaPH community on Viber to get the latest updates on products, services, and promos. 

New program strengthens after-sales support for Tamaraw, Lite Ace and eligible Takata campaign customers starting August 2026.

IN PHOTO (L TO R): TMP Senior Vice President – Marketing Division Ryo Yokoyama, TMP Senior Vice President – Marketing Division Sherwin Chua-Lim, TMP President Masando Hashimoto, AAP President Augustus Ferreria, AAP Finance Committee Chairman & Trustee Mr. Augusto Cosio Jr. and AAP Chief Executive Officer Mark Desales

Toyota Motor Philippines (TMP) is expanding its after-sales support through a new partnership with the Automobile Association Philippines (AAP), giving eligible Toyota owners access to free 24/7 Emergency Roadside Assistance (ERS) beginning August 2026.

The partnership reinforces Toyota’s commitment to customer safety, peace of mind, and dependable mobility beyond the point of vehicle purchase by providing eligible motorists with nationwide roadside assistance backed by AAP, one of the country’s most trusted motoring organizations.

The program will be available to new Toyota Tamaraw and Lite Ace owners of units sold beginning August 2026.

Eligible customers may avail of roadside assistance services, including flat tire replacement, battery boosting, minor on-site mechanical repairs, emergency fuel delivery, and towing assistance of up to one intervention or 25 kilometers to the nearest Toyota dealership. Membership is valid for one year from the vehicle release date. To begin enjoying these benefits, customers can activate their membership by scanning the QR code included with their membership card.

The Emergency Roadside Assistance Program is expected to be especially valuable for owners of the Toyota Tamaraw and Lite Ace, vehicles relied upon by entrepreneurs, businesses, and families for their everyday mobility needs. For the locally produced Tamaraw manufactured through Toyota Motor Philippines, the program enhances the ownership experience by giving customers added confidence on every journey.

“AAP has been recognized for its commitment to road safety, a mission that Toyota deeply shares. That is why today’s agreement is significant. It reflects our shared commitment to providing better service and greater peace of mind to our customers. Through this program, we want our customers to know that help is available whenever they need it,” said Toyota Motor Philippines President Masando Hashimoto, at a Ceremonial Contract Signing last July 20. “At Toyota, our responsibility does not end when we hand over the keys. We remain committed to supporting our customers throughout their ownership journey.” He added.

“Our recent engagements with fellow automobile clubs have reinforced one common challenge shared by many countries – improving driver education and road discipline. Partnerships such as this with Toyota Motor Philippines go beyond providing emergency roadside assistance; they help us build a culture of safer, more responsible motorists,” shared AAP President Augustus Ferreria. “It is our hope that every Toyota Tamaraw and Lite Ace owner will not only have peace of mind through AAP’s roadside assistance, but also become better and more disciplined drivers,” He added.

Toyota and AAP have built a longstanding relationship through initiatives that promote road safety and responsible motoring, including their collaboration in the Toyota Gazoo Racing Philippine Cup. The new Emergency Roadside Assistance Program marks another milestone in that partnership by delivering practical support that directly benefits Toyota owners across the country.

Eligible customers may contact their authorized Toyota dealership for complete program details and membership registration.

DTI Fair Trade Permit No. FTEB-264691 Series of 2026.

Follow Toyota Motor Philippines on Facebook, Instagram and X, and join the ToyotaPH community on Viber to get the latest updates on products, services, and promos.