Marcos: Toyota’s P5.5-B Investment in New Tamaraw to Boost PH Transport, Support MSMEs

President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. expressed optimism that Toyota Motor Corporation’s P5.5-billion investment for the Next Generation Tamaraw will significantly benefit both the Philippine transport sector and the nation’s micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs). In a Palace ceremony, Toyota presented the newly designed Tamaraw and showcased its hydrogen technology.

Marcos highlighted that the revamped Tamaraw is tailored to the Philippine market, designed to be durable and versatile for daily use in both work and leisure contexts. “The Tamaraw has long been a reliable partner for Filipinos in their daily journeys,” he said, noting that its new design incorporates advanced technologies to suit Philippine conditions.

Toyota’s investment includes P1.1 billion dedicated to the public utility vehicle (PUV) modernization program, a critical part of the Philippine government’s initiative to update its transport fleet. The Next Generation Tamaraw, built on a re-engineered IMV platform, offers block-like simplicity that allows for easy customization and maintenance.

In a gesture of support for community programs, Toyota has pledged the first five units to First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos’ “Lab for All” initiative, which delivers essential medical services across the country. “This will undoubtedly improve our ability to deliver essential medical services,” Marcos noted.