Suzuki strengthens commitment to Philippine operations

MANILA, Philippines - Suzuki Philippines, Inc. (SPH), the country’s only integrated automotive company, celebrated its 25th year in the country with simple ceremonies held at their head office and manufacturing plant at Bagong Ilog, Pasig City last February 5, 2010. This was followed by a tree-planting activity and company outing on February 6.

Formally opening the anniversary festivities, SPH president Satoshi Uchida’s inspirational message enjoined employees to “improve your sales, improve your job, so we can make Suzuki No. 1 in the world.” In the same vein, managing director Catalina Calderon presented the company’s five-year goals, starting with the battlecry to “Double Up in 2011.” An inspirational song entitled “Hataw Suzuki” was launched to boost employee morale. Sang by in-house talents, the anthem will be played during company events to remind everyone of their commitment to a shared vision.

Employee citations and service awards were also part of the anniversary celebration, with SPH senior manager for import-export Esperanza Custodio as the lone recipient for a 25-year service award.

To signal their long-term commitment to contribute to the Philippine economy, Suzuki partnered with the Haribon Foundation in a tree-planting activity at Barangay Cuyambay, Tanay Rizal. Dubbed “Suzuki Plants”, this activity symbolizes the company’s way of giving a gift that endures for a lifetime and makes a lasting difference for future generations. A company outing at Villa Lorenza, Pililla, Rizal capped the anniversary celebrations.

Suzuki motorcycles were first introduced in the Philippines in 1959 by Rufino D. Antonio & Associates, Inc., who handled nationwide distribution. In 1975, Antonio Suzuki Corporation was formed as a joint venture company to expand motorcycle sales. In 1985, Suzuki Motor Corporation of Japan took over operations, establishing Suzuki Philippines as a wholly-owned subsidiary, handling both manufacturing and distribution of Suzuki motorcycles.

In 1999, the company marked another milestone when it took over automobile operations from Pilipinas Transport Industries, Inc. (PTII), thus expanding its product line to include automobiles, and becoming the only integrated automotive company in the country carrying a full range of two-wheel and four-wheel product lines.

In its 25-year history, SPH has built a heritage of trust and reliability, with a loyal following of Suzuki owners who recognize the brand’s eminence as an innovator and trendsetter.

With a commitment to contribute to the national economy, SPH exported its first batch of Philippine-made Suzuki motorcycles to Guatemala in 1990. In line with the government’s program to establish backward linkages with allied companies, SPH continues to expand its localization program, sourcing as much as 45% local components for its tricycle models.

Faced with the challenges of globalization and free trade allowing importation of low-cost motorcycles, SPH is adopting a growth strategy focused on increasing both the solo-ride and tricycle segments. As the country continues to industrialize, Suzuki motorcycles will provide a safe, economical, convenient and fashionable means of transportation.

Suzuki automobiles enjoy a niche following among local car aficionados, and have earned accolades despite their relatively recent entry in the Philippine market. The Suzuki Celerio M/T posted the lowest fuel consumption of 34.34-km per liter in the 2009 E10 Fuel Economy Run of the Department of Energy. It was also named Best Value for Money in the 2009 Car of the Year (COTY) awards, while the Suzuki APV Type II was awarded the 2009 Best Compact People Carrier by C! Magazine.

SPH is committed to doing its share in accelerating the progress and industrialization of the country by introducing more dynamic products for both motorcycles and automobiles as well as programs for the Filipino motoring public harnessing the power of Suzuki’s Way of Life by providing them the best quality vehicles that offer not just ease in transportation, but lifestyle options as well.