Isuzu service ‘Olympians’ prepare for international contests

SEVENTY-FIVE participants representing 25 dealerships competed in the 14th edition of the IsuzuService Skills Olympics (ISSO) held on June 1 at Isuzu Philippines Corp.’s (IPC) plant in Binan, Laguna.

IPC explained each participating dealer is equivalent to one team composed of three “Olympians” — a service technician, a service advisor and a parts staff — who competed in written and practical exams. The five-hour competition highlighted the importance of the service technicians’ and advisors’ roles in providing quality service and customer satisfaction, and the parts staff’s efficiency in parts analysis in service operations, according to IPC.

The winners in the Service Technician Category were Mark Anthony Arroyo and Jan Michael Manzon of Isuzu Cavite. First runners-up were Arjhay Pulvera and Reynaldo Gepulle of Isuzu Alabang. Harvay Jay Ragrag and Gilbert Regis of Isuzu Isabela were second runners-up.

The champion in the Service Advisor Category was Kevin Oliva of Isuzu Alabang; first runner-up was Joseph Clarito of Isuzu Cavite; and second runner-up was Josie James Marilla of Isuzu Cagayan de Oro.

Mark Anthony Rañola of Isuzu Commonwealth won the Parts Staff Category. Following him as first runner and second runner-up, respectively, were Cristy Plazuela of Isuzu Iloilo and Christopher Garcia of Isuzu Cabanatuan.

The dealer overall champion was Isuzu Alabang.

“After this local staging, the world is waiting,” said IPC president Hajime Koso, referring to IsuzuWorld Technical Competitions where IPC’s team comprised of ISSO winners has turned in exceptional performances since 2006.

IPC said the annual ISSO develops the two teams which will represent the Philippines in the yearly Isuzu World Technical Competition for commercial vehicles (held in Japan) and the biennial IsuzuWorld Technical Competition for light commercial vehicles (held in Thailand).

At least 31 countries take part in these competitions, IPC said.