Fifteen scholars from Batch 23 of the Isuzu Heart and Smile Project (IHSP) have completed their two-year training in automotive servicing at the Isuzu-TESDA Auto Mechanic Training Center in Tacloban, Leyte. All graduates earned a National Certificate IV (NC IV), the highest qualification under the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) for automotive servicing.

The Isuzu Heart and Smile Project is a collaborative initiative between Isuzu Motors Limited Japan, TESDA, and the humanitarian organization World Vision. Since its establishment in 2008, the program has aimed to empower underprivileged youth with technical education, combining TESDA’s standard curriculum with specialized training on Isuzu diesel technology and related topics.

To date, the IHSP has produced 436 graduates. The program maintains a high employment rate of 94.3-percent, with 67-percent working locally, 24-percent overseas, and 3-percent pursuing self-employment. Alumni of the program have found opportunities in countries such as Australia, Japan, Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Qatar, the United States, and other regions in Asia and the Middle East.

Tetsuya Ikemoto of Isuzu Motors Limited acknowledged the growing automotive industry in the Philippines and underscored the importance of skilled professionals. “The auto industry in the Philippines is growing every year, and more and more people are interested in working in it,” he said. He encouraged the new graduates to apply their training to contribute to both their future employers and the broader development of the country. “We hope that through this project, graduates will be able to satisfy customers by demonstrating the skills you acquired in your training and contribute to the development of the company and the Philippines,” Ikemoto added.

Following the graduation, the IHSP also welcomed 18 new scholars comprising Batch 27, who will undergo training until 2027. To mark the occasion and inspire the incoming students, scholars from Batches 24 to 26 held a skills demonstration showcasing key competencies developed through the program. Several students were also commended during the event for their exceptional academic and technical performance.

Isuzu Philippines Corporation President, Mikio Tsukui, expressed confidence in the graduates' future contributions. “We are honored to be part of these students’ journey as they become professionals who can apply their skills for the benefit of the company, our valued customers, and society,” Tsukui said. “We look forward to their continued success—not only as key members of the Isuzu dealer network both locally and internationally, but also in their broader career pursuits.”

Now on its 17th year, the Isuzu Heart and Smile Project continues to serve as a platform for skills development and socio-economic advancement, reinforcing Isuzu's long-standing commitment to community building and education.