Toyota Motor Philippines (TMP) president Satoru Suzuki bid farewell to members of the media last December 10, 2019, in Taguig City. This concludes his four-year term as president of the local automotive giant.
Suzuki’s term, which began in January of 2016, was marked by a strong resurgence of local parts manufacturing, grassroots motorsports, and environmental initiatives, as well as the introduction of key global models to the Philippine market.
The formal press announcement of his departure was attended by TMP Chairman Alfred V. Ty, who led the farewell toast that was joined by the media.
“His hands-on leadership approach propelled Toyota to rebound from last year’s tough market conditions, and we are fortunate to have a President who truly led by example,” said Chairman Ty before raising his glass to President Suzuki.
During his term, president Suzuki oversaw the CARS Program participation of TMP with the Philippine government, through the all-new Vios model. In 2019 alone, Toyota mounted three major launches: the Hiace World Premiere, Toyota GR Supra, and all-new Corolla Altis with the Hybrid Electric Vehicle (HEV) variant.
Upcoming projects initiated by President Suzuki include the PHP 4.5-billion Luzon Hub, which will revolutionize Toyota’s logistics operations; the Toyota Mobile App to better connect customers with dealers; and the expansion to a new business model to explore long-term leasing of vehicles.
“This is not a final goodbye, but a new beginning. I am sure I will see you all again very soon,” said President Suzuki as he took his final bow.
Suzuki leaves TMP with a year-to-date market share of 39.3 percent, with the number peaking at 43.7 percent in October of 2019. In his last year, the company achieved its 17th consecutive Triple Crown and retained its Top 9 position in the Toyota global distributor rankings. The number of Toyota dealerships also increased from 48 to 71 during his term.
The next president of Toyota Motor Philippines is expected to be announced later this month.
For more Toyota news and information, visit TMP’s official website at www.toyota.com.ph.