Ford puts smarter, safer drivers behind the wheel

EJ Francisco, radio DJ Dela Mar Arias, model Mikaela Martinez, and JP Tuason

Going on the road with your family to visit new places or reconnect with people can be one of the most rewarding aspects of driving.

It’s also these times, when traveling with family and friends, that safety is paramount.

With this in mind, Ford Philippines launched the latest edition of its Driving Skills for Life (DSFL) program.

The aim of the DSFL program is to put smarter, safer drivers behind the wheel, thus helping to make driving safer for everyone.

The focus of this year’s DSFL program is on families—appropriate since many families like to go on roadtrips.

Anti-distracted driving tips

Of primary concern would be distracted driving, with multiple adults and kids on board, and a gaggle of gadgets on hand.

The program this year offers anti-distracted driving tips.

Ford also aimed to give drivers greater skill in vehicle handling, especially in taller cars like the popular Everest SUV and Ranger pickup.

Driving in special conditions, like torrential rain common these days, dense traffic conditions, and on the highway are also part of the DSFL program.

Aside from aiming to put smarter, safer drivers behind the wheel, the DSFL program also gives driving lessons to kids.

Participants are also given tips on how to drive more efficiently.

This year marks the DSFL’s 11th year in the Philippines, and the program targets over 2,500 pubic ulility and private vehicle drivers from all around the country.

Hands-on driving sessions

More hands-on driving sessions are seen as the key to reinforce the lessons learned in DSFL.

Ford will work with its customer base, and also tap drivers of transport network vehicle services (TVNS) companies.

“The DSFL has definitely come a long way in helping promote road safety and safety driving in the Philippines, so we’re definitely inspired year after year to think of ways to improve the training program, share more relevant tips and techniques in safe driving and road safety, and extend the reach to more Filipino drivers,” said EJ Francisco, AVP, Communications, Ford Philippines.

The Ford DSFL has trained over 22,000 Filipino drivers nationwide since 2008. Its longtime partner is Tuason Racing School, itself an advocate of road safety.

“We recognize how easy it is for drivers to get distracted while in traffic everyday, so our family safety advocacy is a fitting reminder to reinforce the importance of keeping one’s eyes on the road and hands on the wheel while driving,” Francisco said.

“As the global leader in vehicle safety, our class-leading cars, SUVs, and trucks have in-car safety features and technologies that help families get home safely,” he added.

Even experienced drivers can benefit from a refresher course at DSFL.

Interested motorists can follow or inquire with Ford Philippines through its social media accounts.

DSFL is being offered to participating drivers for free.