Isuzu strengthens Cebu presence

The World on Wheels event in Cebu presented Isuzu’s latest offerings as well as attractive packages for corporate clients. PHOTO: CHARLES E. BUBAN

With the conclusion of World on Wheels event last week in Cebu, Isuzu Philippines Inc. (IPC) has formally brought to the island province its newly launched mu-X SUV as well as an array of updated models meant to attract corporate clients.

“It is only fitting that we at IPC continue to provide Cebuanos the best that the Isuzu brand can offer, and at present, this means introducing to them the mu-X. Cebu has always been, and remains to be, one of our strongest markets. This is hardly surprising as the province’s mix of highly urbanized areas and breathtaking agricultural and seaside landscape makes it the perfect setting for Isuzu vehicles, which are well-equipped to serve both leisure and utility purposes,” said IPC president Nobuo Izumina during the event’s formal opening held at the Oakridge Pavilion in Cebu City.

Other offerings

Aside from the mu-X, Isuzu also presented during the World on Wheels event the Crosswind XT Limited edition that now boasts a new rear spoiler integrated with LED lamp, 3.5-inch digital LCD entertainment system and the chromed fog lamps and radiator grille set. Another model displayed was the all-new D-max X-series pickup (in both automatic and manual versions).

Aside from its popular passenger models, IPC also presented its commercial vehicle lineup that include the i-Van in UV express shuttle or school bus configurations; D-Max cab and chassis with passenger van body; NHR Flexiqube; and NKR light-duty truck.

The event also displayed a marine engine to highlight Isuzu’s expertise in diesel engine technology.

During the event, IPC also turned over 300 units of assorted Isuzu truck models to Orix Leasing and Finance Corp. The trucks will then be delivered to Dranix Distributors Inc., one of the biggest trucking companies in Cebu.

Expanding network

In a related development, IPC also announced that it also turned over more than 100 units of NKR71 trucks (configured with aluminum van body) to Jolibee Food Corp. (JFC), which is currently expanding its nationwide network to more than 2,200 stores and outlets by the end of 2014.

Leading the new Isuzu truck fleet turnover were JFC senior buyer Jo-Marie Velasquez, JFC corporate purchasing director for Philippine Strategic Sourcing Hosanna Joy Abesamis, IPC SVP for sales Arthur Balmadrid, JFC senior buyer Roland Caligagan and IPC senior fleet head Mario Ojales.

According to Balmadrid, JFC’s purchase is the latest in the fast food giant’s testament of trust for the Isuzu brand. “JFC has for many years been relying on Isuzu products. Previously, JFC had ordered Isuzu kitchen mobiles and NPR delivery trucks,” he said.