Motoring Today Column

Apr 08, 2020

In these unsettling times it is easy to be discouraged and dispirited. Still it isn't difficult to find things to celebrate and be encouraged. That, as has been proven by many examples in both recent and ancient past, innovations of men of vision and leadership propel growth in good times and overcome crisis and difficulties in bad.

Companies led by such men survive and grow through many cycles of economic up and downturns. And some prove invaluable during crisis and calamities.

One such company is Suzuki Motor Corporation which is celebrating its 100th anniversary this year. The fourth largest automaker in Japan started out interestingly enough as Suzuki Loom Works, providing loom weaving equipment for Japan's growing cotton and silk industry at the turn of the century when the company opened its borders to the world.

Suzuki Loom Works was founded by Michio Suzuki, an inventor who believed in craftmanship and one of the principles that the company still adheres to to this day: "If the customer needs something, we must do whatever we can to respond. Hard work guarantees success."

In March of 1920, the company reorganized and became known as the Suzuki Loom Manufacturing Company. By 1952, Suzuki began manufacturing and selling motorized bicycles and by 1954 it was assembling motorcycles.

In 1955 it also began assembling four-wheeled vehicles, starting off with the Suzulight. In 1965 it also ventured into selling 4-stroke gasoline engines for the marine transport industry.

Suzuki ventured into the Philippine market 35 years ago and today is the only local subsidiary carrying Suzuki motorcycle, automobile and outboard motor products.

Suzuki Philippines now has 68 motorcycle dealerships and a network of 3,079 shops and is known as the "Underbone King." It now ranks among the top 5 sellers of automobiles in the country. Its outboard or marine business now has six dealerships and achieved 205% growth in 2019.

In a press statement, Suzuki said: "Suzuki continues to create and innovate for the satisfaction of its customers in the Philippines and all over the world. We will continue to strive and take part in the community as we are currently experiencing a major speed bump worldwide. As Team Suzuki, our participation goes beyond not just by producing reliable products but being able to assist in continuing the way of life of our people. Stay calm. Stay safe. Stay home."

Phoenix Prize

Phoenix Petroleum also has cause for celebration in these difficult times. Its nationwide launch of the Phoenix Pulse Technology won theSilver Stevie Award in theNew Product Launch Category at the 16th International Business Awards.

In a press statement, Phoenix said its product launch bested more than 4,000 nominees from 74 countries.

It added that jurors cited its "well-thought out integrated campaign" that featured "engagement from the 'inside'-turning employees into company ambassadors-to 'outside' through an engaging media launch incorporating a celebrity."

"Winning awards and getting recognized for a product that we worked hard for to improve customer experience on our services makes us feel really proud and honored. We have always been in pursuit of being the indispensable partner of everyone whose life we touch and being the credible alternative brand--and this IBA award is an affirmation that our Phoenix PULSE Technology campaign has truly elevated our brand and offered more value to customers," said Phoenix Petroleum Chief Operating Officer Henry Albert Fadullon.

Kia Delivers

Delivery services are proving to be vital in the present pandemic that forced many to remain safe at home. Many believe it will continue to do so as the nation begins to move toward normalcy.

Kia Philippines has introduced the Kia K2500 which it says delivers on its "Promise to Care" campaign.

In a press statement, Kia said: "Designed specifically for business owners who are in the fast-growing delivery service industry, the K2500 boasts features that not only meet one's needs but also make life more comfortable and convenient for driver and occupants."

Powered by a 2.5-liter CRDI Euro-4 compliant diesel motor that generates 130ps at 3,800rpm and 255Nm from 1,500 to 3,500 rpm, the K2500 comes in several variants from the 18-passenger Karga less the air conditioning and seats, Cargo Van, Dropside pickup- in single and double cab, or a Cab and Chassis.

"The Kia K2500 is the perfect vehicle to show you care in times of need. It can be used as a vehicle to deliver groceries and relief goods, utilized to ferry medical personnel and frontliners, and even serve as an ambulance," Manny Aligada, Kia Philippines President added.

Free Tollways for Doctors

Medical front-liners can now travel toll free at all tollways nationwide. This was announced by Department of Public Works and Highways Secretary Mark Villar who said: "San Miguel Corporation Infrastructure, Metro Pacific, and Ayala Corporation has agreed to waive toll payments on all its expressways for the duration of the community quarantine."

To avail of the toll-free privilege in all SMC Tollways, which includes STAR Tollway, South Luzon Expressway (SLEX), Skyway, NAIA Expressway (NAIA-X), and Tarlac-Pangasinan-La Union Expressway (TPLEX), medical personnel need to secure a special RFID sticker or have their existing RFID sticker converted at temporary booths set up at Magallanes Station and NAIAX Toll Gate.

To get their toll-free RFIDs in all Metro Pacific expressways, which includes North Luzon Expressway (NLEX), Subic-Clark-Tarlac Expressway (SCTEX), Cavite Expressway (CAVITEX), Cavite Laguna Expressway, C5 South Link and NLEX Harbor Link, medical personnel only need to present theirPRC License Card at the Balintawak Toll Plaza Customer Service Center and Cavitex Customer Service Center (before Parañaque Toll Plaza).

Happy Motoring!!!

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