TMP to donate P5-M for 'Kristine' victims, 5 ambulances

MANILA – Toyota Motor Philippines Corp. (TMP) pledged Friday to donate P5 million for the victims of Severe Tropical Storm Kristine (international name Trami), as well as five units of the Next Generation Tamaraw ambulance that will be used for the "Lab for All" Project spearheaded by First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos.

The commitment was made when the TMP presented its upcoming Next Generation Tamaraw and a hydrogen-powered concept vehicle at Malacañan Palace in Manila.

In his message, Toyota Asia Region chief executive officer Masahiko Maeda condoled with the victims of the tropical storm.

"We deeply sympathize with every Filipino who are affected by Kristine and hope for their quick recovery," Maeda said.

During the event, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. also received a letter of intent from TMP for its planned donation of five Tamaraw units, which will be converted into ambulances and turned over to the government in 2025.

Marcos expressed appreciation for Toyota's planned donation.

"It would not be possible without the generous support of Toyota Motor Philippines Corp., which committed to donate first five units…of the Next Generation Tamaraw Ambulance to the First Lady's 'Lab for All' Initiative," he said.

"Undoubtedly, this contribution will improve our ability to deliver essential medical services to our citizens. Once again, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to Toyota for providing a diverse array of mobility solutions that empower Filipinos in our quest for a more progressive and productive future."

The Lab for All Project aims to make health care accessible to Filipinos, especially those from geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas by delivering laboratory and medical services.

The project facilitates the donation of mobile vans equipped with top-of-the-line medical equipment, such as X-ray machines, ultrasound, portable urine analyzers, glucose monitors, and cholesterol monitors.

Marcos also thanked Toyota for its continued investment in the Philippines, particularly the P5.5 billion investment in the production of the Philippine-made Next Generation Tamaraw, also known regionally as the Toyota Innovative International Multi-Purpose Vehicle Zero.

He said Toyota's aspiration to achieve zero emissions while enhancing societal value through its mobility ecosystem is aligned with his administration's commitment towards developing more renewable and clean energy sources.

"Embracing this responsibility becomes even more urgent as we confront the increasing frequency and severity of natural disasters, exacerbated by our position in the typhoon belt. Severe Tropical Storm Kristine has now impacted our nation, particularly out here in Luzon, through relentless rains and flooding, and this underscores once again, to the every single Filipino the importance of adaptability and of preparedness," Marcos said.

"Engineered for versatility and affordability, the New Generation Tamaraw is designed for Filipinos. Our micro, small, and medium enterprises and proprietors have a reliable partner in Tamaraw, empowering our people in their daily journeys. What makes this achievement even more meaningful is that the Tamaraw is proudly manufactured here at home – by Filipinos, for Filipinos." (PNA)