However, the great-grandson of Henry Ford took time off his busy Asian schedule to unveil several Ford models introduced and produced by Ford Philippines. Together with Henry Co, the Filipino president of Ford Philippines, Bill Ford unveiled the much sought-after Ford Everest SUV (with 400 reservations and growing), a more daring Ford Escape mini-SUV (with moon roof and that eye-catching yellow color), and the racy new Ford Lynx RS (with the 2.0-liter engine, moon roof and 15-inch magwheels). He also viewed the locally-modified Ford Ranger Limited Edition as well as the Mazda Tribute (Mazda’s version of the Ford Escape) and Mazda Protégé, which are made in the Philippines and-exported to Asian countries.
In his speech, Bill Ford praised the Ford Philippines associates, especially the workers and assemblers who make the vehicles. He cited their industriousness, their skills and their dedication to quality. He noted that while Ford Philippines is a small operation in the vast worldwide Ford operations, their contribution is significant and their expansion is greatly expected. He extolled them to strive to improve their skills because he feels that once the Philippine economy gets into gear, there will be greater demand for Ford automobiles.
Ford then toured the plant and the offices then hurried off to a luncheon meeting in Makati with the top brass of Ford Philippines. True to his "Speedy Bill" moniker and in line with his hectic schedule, the activity lasted only about an hour and a half. But those 90 minutes brought renewed energy to the people of Ford Philippines.