• Toyota PH Offers Free 21-Point Safety Inspection Until April 16

    Toyota PH Offers Free 21-Point Safety Inspection Until April 16

    QUEZON CITY, Philippines (Apr 14) – Planning your Holy Week road trip? Toyota Motor Philippines (TMP) wants to help ensure your journey is safe by offering a free vehicle checkup before you hit the road.

    Leading mobility company TMP announced that customers can get a free 21-point vehicle safety inspection from now until April 16, 2025. This service aims to prepare vehicles for the long drives often associated with the Holy Week exodus.

    The inspection covers crucial safety components. Technicians will check brakes, tires, lights, and even look under the hood to confirm your vehicle is road-trip ready. The goal is to provide peace of mind for motorists traveling during this peak season.

    This complimentary service is available at any authorized Toyota dealership or service center across the Philippines.

    As an added benefit, customers who decide to purchase additional services during their free inspection visit will receive a Caltex SavePlus card. This card offers fuel discounts of P2.00 per liter for gasoline and P1.00 per liter for diesel at participating Caltex stations.

  • DENR Partners with Toyota for Enhanced Tamaraw Protection Efforts

    DENR Partners with Toyota for Enhanced Tamaraw Protection Efforts

    QUEZON CITY, Philippines (Apr 07) – Protectors of the Philippines’ critically endangered Tamaraw received a significant boost in mobility and equipment thanks to a recent donation.

    Toyota Motor Philippines Foundation (TMPF), the social arm of Toyota Motor Philippines Corporation (TMP), turned over a new Tamaraw vehicle and specialized kits to support the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) Tamaraw Conservation Program (TCP). The handover ceremony took place at the DENR Central Office in Quezon City.

    DENR Secretary Maria Antonia Yulo Loyzaga, TMP President Masando Hashimoto, and TMPF President Jose Maria Aligada led the event. This donation marks the first step in a collaboration formalized by a Memorandum of Understanding signed between DENR and TMPF in December 2024, coinciding with the launch of the Next Generation Toyota Tamaraw.

    TMPF provided a brand-new Tamaraw Utility Van (UV) long wheelbase variant. This vehicle will assist the “Bantay Tamaraw Rangers” in their patrolling and monitoring activities across Mindoro island. It will also serve the mobility needs of the TCP Office.

    Alongside the vehicle, Php500,000 worth of “Bantay Tamaraw Kits” were given to DENR-MIMAROPA officials and TCP representatives for the rangers. These kits contain essential mountaineering gear, equipment, and tools.

    The Bantay Tamaraw Rangers are dedicated volunteers, including Indigenous People (IP) and local barangay residents. They work tirelessly to protect the Tamaraw (Bubalus mindorensis) and its habitat in Mounts Iglit-Baco Natural Park, which covers parts of Occidental Mindoro and Oriental Mindoro. Currently, 18 registered rangers are set to receive a complete kit each.

    “We salute you for risking yourself on the ground to protect our Tamaraws,” said TMP President Masando Hashimoto during the ceremony, acknowledging the rangers’ dedication. “Now, it is your turn to be protected too – from the harsh mountain conditions and various dangers of trekking and camping for weeks in the wilds.”

    Hashimoto noted that this initiative aligns with the global Toyota Environmental Challenge 2050, specifically the goal of “Establishing a Society in Harmony with Nature.” TMP actively collaborates with DENR on environmental projects like reforestation and marine life conservation, now extending to biodiversity conservation.

    Beyond the initial donations, TMPF has pledged a Php3 million conservation fund. This fund will support key TCP activities, including habitat monitoring, research, programs for Barangay and IP volunteers, equipping the Tamaraw Research and Conservation Center, and public awareness campaigns.

    TMPF, established 35 years ago, focuses on health, education, environment, and community service initiatives.

  • Honda Room is Revving Up Opportunities for Filipino Mechanics

    Honda Room is Revving Up Opportunities for Filipino Mechanics

    MANILA, Philippines (Apr 2025) — Honda Philippines is revving up its commitment to grassroots technical education with the nationwide relaunch of its Honda Room program, a hands-on training lab designed to turn underprivileged youth into skilled motorcycle mechanics.

    The initiative is part of Honda’s “Honda Love You” Corporate Social Responsibility banner and supports young Filipinos taking Motorcycle/Small Engine Servicing (MSES) vocational courses in technical schools across Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao. Each Honda Room is equipped with motorcycles using the latest tech, tools, and a train-the-trainer system to pass on proper servicing techniques to future technicians.

    Honda kicked off the program’s relaunch on March 18 in Nueva Ecija at Don Bosco Training Center–San Jose, Inc. The center focuses on youth aged 17 to 24, mainly children of farmers who don’t have access to higher education. This was followed by a March 26 event in Iloilo at Don Bosco Boy’s Home and Vocational Training Center in Dumangas, which provides shelter and education to at-risk youth.

    The final stop was in Davao Oriental on March 28 at Don Bosco Training Center–Mati, Inc. The facility trains students with industry-relevant skills to boost their employment chances locally and beyond.

    Each training center received Honda motorcycles, specialized tools, and support in aligning their curriculum with Honda standards in quality, safety, and customer satisfaction. The program benefits about 25 students per term, giving them not only job-ready skills but a shot at long-term employment in the country’s expanding motorcycle sector.

    With demand rising for service technicians across the Philippines, Honda is focused on building strong ties with local schools and developing a pool of skilled, job-ready workers for its dealerships and beyond.

    For more details about the Honda Room program or future training opportunities, visit Honda Philippines’ website or follow them on social media.

  • Toyota Ilocos Sur opens doors to Ilocano motorists

    Toyota Ilocos Sur opens doors to Ilocano motorists

    CANDON CITY, Philippines (Apr 2025) — Toyota Motor Philippines has added another pin to its growing dealership network with the opening of Toyota Ilocos Sur, bringing full-service motoring support to Northern Luzon.

    Located along Barangay Langlangca II in Candon City, the new dealership is the brand’s 74th nationwide. Operated by Toyota Dagupan City Inc., the facility is a full-fledged 3S dealership offering Sales, Service, and Spare Parts. It features a spacious showroom that can house four vehicles, along with a workshop equipped with 47 service and body repair bays to meet the needs of motorists in the region.

    The launch marks Toyota’s continuing efforts to expand its reach while delivering on its promise of reliable, accessible mobility for Filipinos outside Metro Manila.

    “This is more than just a dealership,” said TMP President Masando Hashimoto. “It’s a product of hard work and a testament to our vision to help communities grow through mobility.”

    Toyota Dagupan Group President Rene So also pointed to the deeper mission of the brand. “We’re here to bring happiness to every Filipino through dependable service and safe, worry-free driving experiences,” he said.

    Ilocos Sur, known for its heritage sites, mountain roads, and coastal drives, is a promising destination for tourism and transport. The dealership’s location provides easy access via MacArthur Highway and Ilocos Sur–Cervantes Road, with Laoag Airport a few hours away.

    Whether you’re planning a road trip to Vigan or need trusted aftersales support, Toyota Ilocos Sur aims to make vehicle ownership in the north simpler and more convenient.

    For updates on new models, promos, and service announcements, follow Toyota Motor Philippines on Facebook, Instagram, and X, or join the ToyotaPH Viber community.

  • Toyota Gazoo Racing Philippine Cup 2025: Race Weekend 1 Highlights

    Toyota Gazoo Racing Philippine Cup 2025: Race Weekend 1 Highlights

    CLARK, Philippines (Mar 2025) — The 2025 TOYOTA GAZOO Racing Philippine Cup roared into action with an adrenaline-packed opening weekend, showcasing the country’s top racers and Toyota’s high-performance machines. Maila Alivia dominated the Super Sporting Class, while Jesse Garcia led the Sporting Class. Luis Moreno, a sim racer and Vios Cup Autocross Challenge graduate, set the pace in the Novice Class.

    The Legacy Class sprint races featured seasoned racers, including Senator JV Ejercito, who secured his first Vios Cup win in 2017, and Paolo Ang, a two-time Sporting Class runner-up. Ang emerged victorious in both Legacy Class sprint races, solidifying his reputation on the track.

    For the first time in TGR Philippine Cup history, GR car club members joined the action through the newly introduced Club Race, adding a fresh level of competition. Fans also experienced the thrill firsthand during the Track Day, where Toyota’s GR lineup and Lexus’ F SPORT series were on full display.

    Spectators enjoyed an immersive experience beyond the races, with interactive booths offering remote control and sim racing activities. Diecast collectors also had a chance to grab exclusive merchandise. The highlight, however, remained the circuit races, where Sprint Race 2 featured a reverse grid format for added unpredictability. John Rey San Diego secured pole position in the Novice Class, while Oliver Estrella, Mike Santos, and Iñigo Anton led the Legacy, Sporting, and Super Sporting classes, respectively.

    The reverse grid format shook up the competition. Oliver Estrella dropped to the back after sustaining car damage, opening the door for Paolo Ang to clinch another Legacy Class win. In the Sporting Class, Russel Reyes charged to the front for his second sprint victory. Maila Alivia reinforced her championship bid in the Super Sporting Class by sweeping both sprint races and finishing in the top five in the endurance challenge.

    Toyota Motor Philippines President Masando Hashimoto made headlines in the Novice Class by securing a podium finish after capitalizing on a mistake by Pablo Salapantan. Meanwhile, the Super Sporting Class endurance race delivered an intense showdown, with Mikey Jordan and Alain Gabriel Alzona battling fiercely for third place. Alzona ultimately secured the position after relentless overtaking attempts.

    Celebrating 11 years of the TGR Philippine Cup, Hashimoto reaffirmed Toyota’s dedication to motorsports.

    “At TGR Philippines, we remain committed to growing an inclusive and exciting motorsports culture where enthusiasts can come together and celebrate their love for racing,” Hashimoto said. “It is our honor to continue delivering the adrenaline and passion that define TGR.”

    Motorsports fans can gear up for Race Weekend 2 in May. Stay updated by following TOYOTA GAZOO Racing Philippines on Facebook, Instagram, X, YouTube, and TikTok.

    The TOYOTA GAZOO Racing Philippine Cup is powered by Official Fuel & Lubricants Partner Petron and Official Tire Partner GT Radial. Additional partners include Toyota Financial Services Philippines, myTOYOTA Wallet, Denso, AVT, 3M, ROTA, Tuason Racing, OMP, and Kinto One.

  • Honda EM1 e: First BEV teased at PH bike Festival

    Honda EM1 e: First BEV teased at PH bike Festival

    MANILA, Philippines – Honda Philippines Inc. (HPI) made a powerful statement at the Inside Racing Bike Festival 2025, captivating enthusiasts with cutting-edge motorcycles and a strong push toward sustainable mobility. Held from March 21 to 23 at the World Trade Center, the event served as a platform for Honda to highlight its latest lineup—including its first-ever battery-electric motorcycle—alongside high-performance gas-powered models.

    The Future of Mobility: Honda’s First Battery Electric Motorcycle

    Honda is accelerating its electrification strategy with the All-New EM1 e:, the company’s first Battery Electric Vehicle (BEV) in the local market. Designed for urban commuters, the EM1 e: features Honda’s innovative swappable battery technology, allowing riders to extend their journeys without long charging downtimes. With a compact design and zero emissions, this model represents Honda’s commitment to sustainable and efficient personal transportation.

    “Honda is paving the way for the next generation of riders with future-forward, eco-friendly solutions,” said Sayaka Arai, President of Honda Philippines Inc. “The EM1 e: is just the beginning of our journey toward cleaner mobility.”

    Performance Meets Sustainability

    While Honda is making strides in electric mobility, its high-performance gasoline-powered motorcycles remain at the core of its lineup. The company introduced models catering to every rider, from city commuters to off-road adventurers and professional racers:

    • CBR150R (Php183,900): A sleek sportbike with a DOHC liquid-cooled engine, dual disc brakes with ABS, and aggressive styling for performance enthusiasts.
    • XR150L (Php97,900): A lightweight and durable off-road companion designed for rugged terrains.
    • All-New CRF300L (Php269,900) & CRF300 Rally (Php309,900): Adventure-ready bikes built for long-distance touring and off-road challenges.
    • CRF250RX & CRF250R: High-performance models for motocross and enduro racing. Pricing will be revealed in April 2025.

    Honda’s Commitment to Filipino Riders

    Beyond unveiling its latest motorcycles, Honda celebrated the future of Filipino motorsports, recognizing young racing talents such as Kenzo Miguel Abadilla, the 2025 Honda Pilipinas Dream Cup champion. The event also highlighted Jakob Sablaya, HPI’s representative in the Asia Road Racing Championship – AP250, and rising motocross star Sharlet Gallarde.

    Visitors got a hands-on experience with Honda’s lineup through test rides, including the Winner X underbone and the All-New Giorno+ scooter. A showcase of Honda-branded accessories, Pro-Honda Oil, and custom builds rounded out the interactive experience.

    Riding Into the Future

    The Inside Racing Bike Festival 2025 reaffirmed Honda’s dominance in the motorcycle industry, bringing together thousands of riders and enthusiasts. As the company pushes boundaries in both performance and electrification, Filipino riders can expect more sustainable, high-tech solutions in the years to come.

  • Xiaomi Reports Record Earnings in 2024 as SU7 Electric Vehicle Surpasses Sales Targets

    Xiaomi Reports Record Earnings in 2024 as SU7 Electric Vehicle Surpasses Sales Targets

    Xiaomi Corporation closed 2024 with record-breaking revenue of RMB365.9 billion, marking a 35% year-over-year increase as the company’s expansion into electric vehicles and smart mobility gained momentum. For the first time, Xiaomi’s quarterly revenue surpassed RMB100 billion, with fourth-quarter earnings reaching RMB109.0 billion, up 48.8% YoY.

    A major driver of Xiaomi’s performance was its smart electric vehicle (EV) division, which delivered 136,854 units of the Xiaomi SU7 Series in just nine months. Revenue from Xiaomi’s EV and new business ventures soared to RMB32.8 billion, exceeding multiple growth targets.

    Following this success, Xiaomi is accelerating its premium EV strategy with the newly launched Xiaomi SU7 Ultra. Within three days of its debut on February 27, locked-in orders exceeded 10,000 units, hitting the company’s full-year goal ahead of schedule. Xiaomi aims to deliver 350,000 EVs in 2025, supported by its expanding sales network, which now includes 200 showrooms in 58 cities across China.

    Xiaomi’s first electric vehicle, the SU7 Series, has made a strong impression in the competitive premium EV segment. The model is attracting tech-savvy users, including former Apple customers, and is shaping Xiaomi’s transition into a luxury automotive brand.

    The company’s investment in AI-driven smart mobility is paying off, as Xiaomi HyperOS 2 seamlessly integrates the “Human x Car x Home” ecosystem, enhancing cross-device connectivity between Xiaomi smartphones, EVs, and smart home products.

    Xiaomi is also making strides in smart home and IoT innovations, reporting over RMB104.1 billion in revenue from IoT and lifestyle products, up 30% YoY. The company is extending its premium footprint with the Mijia Central Air Conditioner Pro, challenging industry leaders in high-end home climate control solutions.

    The brand’s internet services and AI ecosystem are also growing rapidly, with Xiaomi’s global monthly active users (MAU) surpassing 700 million in December 2024. R&D spending jumped 25.9% YoY to RMB24.1 billion, further strengthening its AI and software ecosystem.

    With strong momentum in EVs, AI, and smart mobility, Xiaomi is positioning itself as a serious contender in the premium automotive and connected living space. As Xiaomi SU7 Ultra and future smart EV models roll out, the company is set to challenge industry titans in the evolving world of tech-driven mobility.

  • Toyota Brings Motorsports Closer to Filipinos with TGRA Racing School

    Toyota Brings Motorsports Closer to Filipinos with TGRA Racing School

    CLARK, Philippines (Mar 2025) — Toyota Motor Philippines (TMP) is fueling Filipino racing dreams with the TOYOTA GAZOO Racing Academy Philippines (TGRA), an immersive training program designed to develop aspiring racers. The latest session at Clark International Speedway gave participants a hands-on introduction to motorsports, blending theory with high-performance driving.

    The program started with a classroom session covering racing etiquette, braking techniques, and car control. Participants then hit the track for a slalom challenge, designed to test agility, followed by a guided “follow the leader” activity, which helped them master the racing line.

    First-time racers were thrilled by the experience. “I’ve raced go-karts before, but driving a full-size car is another level. It’s bigger, faster, and even more exciting,” said Karis Alexandra Santos. Others, like Nemuel Obas, had long been waiting for a chance to drive on a real racetrack. “Since childhood, I’ve been obsessed with cars and racing. When I saw the TGRA, I knew I had to join.”

    Beyond skill-building, the academy fosters inclusivity in motorsports. “As a woman in racing, I want to break barriers. The TGRA provides a great platform to do that,” said Ella Nicole Bornilla.

    TMP Assistant Vice President for Marketing Services Andy Ty highlighted the program’s vision. “We want to make motorsports more accessible to Filipinos. We’ll be hosting more sessions, so we encourage enthusiasts to sign up.”

    Since its launch in 2014, the TGRA has trained drivers who later competed in professional racing, including the TGR Philippine Cup. Fans can witness the adrenaline-pumping action at the first race weekend of the TGR Philippine Cup this Saturday, March 22, 2025, at Clark International Speedway. Admission is free.

  • HATASU Buggy Launches in the Philippines: Price, Specs, and Features

    HATASU Buggy Launches in the Philippines: Price, Specs, and Features

    MANILA, Philippines (Mar 2025) — HATASU is shaking up the electric mobility scene with its first four-wheeled e-bike, the HATASU Buggy, launching in the Philippines with a starting price of ₱86,990. Combining bold aesthetics with practical features, this compact EV is designed for stylish and eco-friendly city cruising.

    The HATASU Buggy comes in four eye-catching colors—White, Red, Light Blue, and Purple—allowing riders to match their personality with their ride. A digital dashboard provides real-time updates on battery levels, voltage, and speed, ensuring a smooth and worry-free commute.

    Powered by a robust 1200W Dynamo Motor, the Buggy can reach speeds of up to 30 KPH and carry a maximum load of 300 KG. It tackles inclines of up to 20 degrees, depending on terrain and load conditions. Safety remains a priority with a leather-wrapped, non-slip steering wheel and a dual braking system featuring a foot brake for precise control and a hand brake for extra stability when parked on slopes.

    For added convenience, the HATASU Buggy offers a spacious cabin that accommodates two to three passengers. An upgraded polypropylene roof provides shade and protection from the elements, while a metal storage compartment with a safety lock ensures secure storage for belongings.

    Blending performance, practicality, and affordability, the HATASU Buggy is the latest innovation for urban mobility in the Philippines. It is now available at HATASU-authorized dealers nationwide and online via Lazada, Shopee, and TikTok Shop.

  • New TOYOTA GR Yaris is coming to the TGR Philippine Cup

    New TOYOTA GR Yaris is coming to the TGR Philippine Cup

    PAMPANGA, Philippines (Mar 2025) — Toyota Motor Philippines (TMP) is bringing the heat to the local motorsports scene with the launch of the 2025 TOYOTA GAZOO Racing (TGR) Philippine Cup. Now in its 11th season, the premier racing series introduces a fresh race format and a new race class, promising even more action for fans.

    Formerly known as the TGR Vios Cup, the TGR Philippine Cup aims to make motorsports more accessible to Filipinos. The 2025 season kicks off with an earlier race calendar featuring three race weekends:

    • Race Weekend 1 – March 22, 2025
    • Race Weekend 2 – May 2025
    • Race Weekend 3 – August 2025

    High-Speed Action at Clark International Speedway

    Race Weekend 1 roars into action at Clark International Speedway in Pampanga, where drivers will battle it out in the Novice, Sporting, and Super Sporting classes across Sprint and Endurance races.

    Familiar faces return to the Novice Class, including TMP President Masando Hashimoto, Reph Bangsil, and media racers John Rey San Diego and Pablo Salapantan. They are joined by newcomers Arianne Bautista, a Vios Cup Autocross alumna; sim racer Luis Moreno; and media racer Ian Magbanua.

    2025 Novice Class champion Russel Reyes and runner-up Jamil Lacuna move up to the Sporting Class, where they will take on the country’s top racers alongside returning contender Kody Ng.

    Introducing the Legacy Class

    One of the biggest changes this season is the introduction of the Legacy Class, featuring past Vios Cup racers and owners of the third-generation Vios. The new category brings former champions and seasoned drivers back to the track, giving fans a chance to see legends in action once again.

    Racing teams from across the country are gearing up for an intense season, with a bigger prize pool adding to the competition.

    More Thrills for Fans

    Motorsports fans can expect more than just races. A new Club Race format allows car clubs—featuring Toyota’s GR Yaris, GR Supra, and GR 86—to go head-to-head in a five-lap circuit race. Previously, club members could only test their speed during Track Day, but now they’ll have the chance to compete on the big stage.

    For fans who prefer the sidelines, Track Day will still be open, with GR performance cars taking center stage. The highly anticipated New GR Yaris will also make its racetrack debut.

    Visitors can explore an array of activities, including game booths, sponsor freebies, and the TGR GT Cup experience, where e-racing fans can test their skills. Drifting and gymkhana exhibitions by professional drivers will keep the adrenaline pumping.

    Filipino alternative rock band Hale will close the event with a live performance of their hit songs. Best of all, admission is free.

    “We listened to what race fans and our customers wanted, and that’s how the Club Race and Legacy Class came to life,” said TMP Assistant Vice President for Marketing Services Andy Ty. “Through the TGR Philippine Cup, we hope to ignite more interest in motorsports and give fans a chance to experience the thrill of racing firsthand.”

    Race Weekend 1 will be streamed live on TOYOTA GAZOO Racing Philippines’ Facebook and YouTube pages, starting at 8:30 AM.

    The TOYOTA GAZOO Racing Philippine Cup is presented by Petron (Official Fuel & Lubricants Partner) and GT Radial (Official Tire Partner), with support from Toyota Financial Services Philippines, myTOYOTA Wallet, Denso, AVT, 3M, ROTA, Tuason Racing, OMP, and Kinto One.