Toyota Motor Philippines Corporation (TMP) recently celebrated 35 years of business in the Philippines. TMP’s foundation in August, 1988 finds its roots in an agreement between then-President of Toyota Motor Corporation (TMC), Dr. Shocihiro Toyota, and Dr. George S.K. Ty, then-Chairman of Metrobank and eventually Group Chair of GT Capital Holdings, Inc (GTC), to contribute to nation building through the business of automotive manufacturing and sales.
The actual anniversary of TMP was last August 3, 2023 and it was marked by a General Assembly of all of its team members. Special long service awards were given including one to Alfred V. Ty, Chairman of TMP. He was recognized for his 30 years of service.
To commemorate the occasion, TMP Management and Labor leaders unveiled a landmark in its Toyota head office and factory in Santa Rosa, Laguna, that enshrines its Labor Relations Declaration. “This is a historic symbol of our commitment to remain One Team Toyota Philippines,” Mr. Ty said in his congratulatory message. “With Labor and Management working hand in hand, we will continue our journey to a transformative and meaningful future,” he added.
On August 22 and 23, 2023, TMP paid tribute to the many Filipinos who supported it through the years by hosting a number of commemorative events. No less than Akio Toyoda, Chairman of global Toyota, flew in to co-host the festivities with Alfred Ty.
The celebrations started with a visit by President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr. to the Toyota vehicle factory and Aisin transmission plant in Santa Rosa. He toured the facilities and was impressed by the quality of workmanship of Filipino team members and the level of technology employed in the production lines. President Marcos observed that he felt as if he was visiting an automotive factory in Japan. To commemorate the visit of the President, Mr. Ty and Mr. Toyoda handed over 35 Toyota vehicles to the office of the President for use in public service.
After the factory visits, the celebrations continued with a thanksgiving dinner in honor of customers, government, dealers, parts suppliers and business partners. Mr. Ty welcomed all the guests and said that, “…we are extremely thankful for all the milestones of the past 35years. And, as exciting as the future might be, we recognize that much of what is yet to come is inspired by the past 35 years.”
Mr. Ty highlighted the contributions of Toyota towards nation building over the past three and a half decades. He cited that TMP’s work force is now close to 4,000-strong. In fact, throughout its entire ecosystem – including parts suppliers, dealers and affiliated business – TMP provides employment to an estimated 71,000 Filipinos.
As of mid-year 2023, Ty said that TMP has locally produced 1.03 million Toyota vehicles, delivered a cumulative total of 2.24 million Toyotas to Filipino homes across the country and serviced over 16 million units at its 73 service centers.
In terms of contributing to the economy, TMP and the Toyota Group have cumulatively invested PHP 73.7 Billion, paid duties and taxes of PHP 448 billion and exported USD 18.76 Billion-worth of auto parts and components.
The significance of TMP’s contributions, however, only serves to underscore the importance of the automotive industry as a pillar of economic development in the country. Over 35 years, TMP has represented around a third of the entire auto sector. In total, therefore, the industry has likely contributed three times as much towards nation building. In terms of employment, for example, it can be surmised that the automotive sector has provided jobs for upwards of 200,000 Filipinos.
Mr. Ty said in his remarks that, “TMP remains committed to supporting local manufacturing through our partnership with local parts makers, other industry players and, of course, the government.” Moreover, he added that, “ We are also committed to transitioning into a mobility company that aims to meet the rapidly evolving vehicle usage needs of Filipinos including commuters, logistics providers and small and medium businesses.”
A highlight of the evening was the unveiling by Mr. Toyoda of the New Generation Tamaraw Concept vehicle. In his remarks, Mr. Toyoda said that he challenged his engineering and design teams to create a vehicle that is truly affordable and innovative. “I truly believe this is a product that can enhance the quality of life for many people and provide new economic opportunities,” he continued.
The next day, the celebrations culminated with an exciting display of world class master driving led by Mr. Akio Toyoda himself who uses the name of “Morizo” in his motorsport pursuits. Over 7,000 people trooped to the Quirino Grandstand to experience the Toyota Gazoo Racing Festival that showcased Japanese and Filipino professional racers.
Indeed, the first 35 years were a resounding testament to doing things better. It should be even more exciting in the years to come.
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