Toyota Honorary Chairman conferred The Order Of Lakandula

MANILA, Philippines - Toyota Motor Corporation (TMC) honorary chairman Dr. Shoichiro Toyoda was awarded the Order of Lakandula with Rank of Grand Cross (Bayani) by President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo in a ceremony held in Malacañang.

The Order of Lakandula is one of the highest honors given by the Republic of the Philippines conferred upon a Filipino or a foreign citizen who has demonstrated by his life and deeds a dedication to the welfare of society.

Dr. Toyoda’s primary emphases throughout his career in Toyota revolved around automotive technology, quality control, and factory management. His contributions to these areas of discipline earned him a Deming Prize in 1980 for his contributions to quality control, as well as Japan’s prestigious Medal with Blue Ribbon in 1984 for outstanding public service through business. Dr. Toyoda became president of TMC in 1981 and assumed the position of chairman from 1992 to 1999. He became honorary chairman of the Company starting 1999.

In Japan alone, Dr. Toyoda’s wealth of wisdom has been highly sought, making him a prominent spokesman for the automotive industry, especially during his stint as chairman of the Japan Automobile Manufacturers Association. Likewise, he has also served as both vice chairman and chairman of the Japan Federation of Economic Organizations (Keidanren), and currently serves as honorary chairman of the organization.

Governments of other countries and other prestigious organizations have also recognized Dr. Toyoda’s contributions to the industry and his impact to the business community.