Centro supports Isuzu’s thrusts under the PUV Modernization Program

In the picture: Rommel T. Juan Centro VP, Hajime Koso IPC President and Vic Belisario Centro Sales Manager

The PUV Modernization Program of the Department of Transportation is now on full throttle, shifted into high gear with the implementation of its Tanggal Bulok, Tanggal Usok Program. This is taking off the road public utility Jeepneys that are no longer roadworthy. The 200,000 or so 15-year old jeepneys are getting ready to be modernized over the next six years with completely brand new, modern PUVs built in conformance with the new standards of the Bureau of Philippine Standards. Locally-assembled prototypes from different manufacturers have been presented to the public since last October at the PhilApex 2017 and at the DOTr PUV Modernization Expo last March 2018.

At the recently-concluded Isuzu Truckfest, IPC President/CEO Hajime Koso presented to the public their modern PUV or Jeepney prototype with body built by leading truck body builder Centro Manufacturing Corporation. The Centro modern PUV prototype for Isuzu is mounted on a Euro 4 QKR light truck platform.

Centro Senior Sales Manager Vic Belisario says that working on this assembly concept is not new to Centro since “Centro has developed a microbus type model of the modern Eco-PUV making use of the Isuzu NKR chassis cab. Our latest design has been widely accepted by transport groups who have viewed the prototype, first at the PhilApex 2017, the PUVM showcase of the DOTr at the PICC and then finally at the Isuzu Truckfest”.

“We made sure that our Centro Eco PUV prototype for Isuzu was designed and manufactured in compliance with PNS 2126:2017 that specifies room enough for 23 passengers or more, side door entry and exit, high floor to ceiling height to allow for standing passengers, aisles and seat spaces and distances according to international standards, doors that are PWD-friendly, the correct vehicle length and width, among others”.

“We fully support Isuzu in its mission to provide the best alternative for the PUV Modernization Program of the government”, Belisario adds, noting that Centro has designed the most convenient, affordable and responsive modern PUV based on the needs of the user. “We are happy to support Isuzu since their engines have been the standard for PUJs for a very long time. Jeepney drivers are familiar with Isuzu and have no problems in after-sales service as they are easy to maintain and spare parts are not difficult to find. They therefore prefer it over other brands that are even cheaper”.