Motoring Today Column

Mar 23, 2022

The Philippine National Railways (PNR) and the Department of Transportation (DOTr) have formally unveiled the first 8-car train set for the North-South Commuter Railway (NSCR) System.

This eight-car train set is one of the13 train sets (or 104 train cars) ordered from theJapan Transport Engineering Company (J-TREC) andSumitomo Corporation in July of 2019.

At the same time, Transportation Secretary Art Tugade announced that an order for 38 more 8-car train sets (or 304 train cars) has been signed.

The 8-car train set measures 160 meters in length and can accommodate 2,228 passengers while able to run at an operational speed of 120 kph.

The unveiling and contract signing for additional train sets signal the DOTr's and the PNR's resolve to continue pursuing the modernization and expansion of the rail network system in Luzon and the rest of the country.

When fully completed and operational, the NSCR system will be 147 kilometers long, spanning28 cities and municipalities fromMabalacat in Pampanga to Calamba in Laguna with 35 stations in between.

It is expected to serve a million passengers on a daily basis.

Subsidy or Fare Hike?

Authorities seem to be more keen about continuingfuel subsidies to transport operators and PUV drivers rather than increasing fare amid the steep rise in gas and diesel prices.

Already, the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTRFB) has announced that fuel subsidies in the amount of P6,500 per unit have already been released to those qualified and have Land Bank-issued Pantawid Pasada Cards.

At the same time, the LTFRB is working to get morePUV drivers and operators to get registered under the fuel subsidy program.

Meanwhile, authorities are indicating that the Service Contracting Program (SCP) should also help transport operators and drivers cope with the rising fuel prices.

The SCP was first conceived to help transport operators and drivers by providing subsidies to help offset the reduced capacity under CoViD-19 quarantine restrictions and later, to help provide free transportation to medical and other frontliners.

Spoiled for Choice

SUV/crossovers buyers are now really spoiled for choice.

There's another SUV in the market that promises to provide not only style but also substance. It's the MG HS SUV.

MG Philippines calls its first new offering for 2022 as a modern, feature-laden, safe, and value-rich SUV, steeped in MG's rich British heritage.

Powered by a 1.5 inline-4 DOHC turbocharged petrol engine mated to 7-speed Twin-Clutch Sportronic Transmission that produces 169PS and 250NM of torque, the MG HS is described as sporty, athletic but with a distinguished countenance.

It also comes with sport bucket seats, a dashboard that features 12.3-inch Virtual Driver Information Center and large 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and multimedia functionality, as well as a panoramic Stargazer Sunroof.

The MG HS also does not lack for modern driver aids which include Blind Spot Detection System, Tire Pressure Monitoring System, EPS 3-mode Adjustable Steering, a proprietary "Sport Mode" that allows for crisper steering and throttle response.

MG Philippines promises that its first product launch of the year offers premium features and style, a plush and comfortable ride, fine driving dynamics, at a very attainable price point.

Until April 30, 2022, the MG HS will be available with an introductory cash price of P1,158,888 for the MG HS SUV Alpha variant, and P1,208,888 for the Trophy variant.

The MG HS is just the first of many global models that MG Philippines will launch this year.

"The launch of the MG HS this first quarter of 2022 is likewise significant because this model headlines the arrival of other modern, global, MG vehicles that we intend to launch and reveal later on throughout the year," says Atty. Alberto B. Arcilla, president and CEO of MG Philippines .

"We at MG Philippines are primed for a very eventful 2022 and begin so with the HS-the vehicles that invites all to aim higher and make the elevated choice when considering a new car purchase."

Kia for Batangueno

There's a new landmark along President Laurel Highway in Barangay San Roque, Sto. Tomas, Batangas that is expected to inspire more to acquire the latest Kia models.

It's the newly reopened Kia Sto. Tomas which has been remodeled, renovated and refurbished in the new "Opposites United" design philosophy that was launched last year along with new logo and motto "Movement That Inspires".

Kia Sto. Tomas now features an eye-catching and modern façade bearing the new corporate logo.

The Opposite United design philosophy is manifested by a customer area with a relaxing, earthy feel provided by a minimalist wooden interior and warm lighting contrasted by a thrilling and futuristic showroom with metallic surfaces and cool lighting.

The transformation of Kia Sto. Tomas is not all about new facade and interior. It also about staff and technicians better trained to assist customers, solve their needs, and exceed their expectations.

Kia Sto. Tomas dealer principals Michael Goho andMarkane Goho vowed to champion the Kia philosophy of"Movement That Inspires" while ensuring that every Batangueño receives the best customer experience in the dealership.

Happy Motoring!!!

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