President Marcos on Friday welcomed Toyota Motor Philippines’ P5.5 billion investment for the mass production of next-generation Toyota Tamaraw vans in the country.
“This will bring more jobs, stronger support for our small businesses and a dependable partner on the road for daily commuters,” Mr. Marcos said.
According to the President, the Japanese automotive giant, through its local subsidiary, donated ambulances in support of First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos’ “Lab for All” program.
“I am delighted to welcome back a true Filipino icon and steer our path toward a cleaner, healthier and more resilient new Philippines,” the chief executive added.
Toyota engineers first briefed the Philippine leader on plans to reintroduce a modernized Tamaraw van during his state visit to Tokyo in February 2023.
The Toyota Tamaraw, in its various models, was a staple among light cargo delivery operators in the Philippines from the 1970s to the 1990s.
It helped coin the term Asian utility vehicle (AUV), to describe a rugged, low-cost vehicle with spartan features and limited creature comforts.