A little introspection when Mazda PHL turns 10 years old

A few YEARS ago, I was attracted by my first sight of a Japanese car with graceful lines and styling reminiscent of a Jaguar. It’s the Mazda CX-5 small SUV, and it marks the local debut of the Hiroshima-based brand’s stunning Kodo-Soul of Motion design language.

But just like the Kodo’s seductive lines, it’s dramatic red paintwork that envelops the car that leaves me gasping for breath. The name of this paint color? Red soul. Kodo-Soul of Motion and Soul Red. If there’s one automaker associated with its soul, it’s Mazda.

And it all started on August 10, 2012, when Mazda’s Philippine distributor, Bermaz Auto Philippines, Inc. (BAP) was established. Over the next decade, BAP introduced Mazda’s diverse lineup of award-winning and award-winning vehicles: Mazda2, Mazda3, Mazda6, CX-3, CX-30, CX-5, CX -8, CX-9. , MX-5 and BT-50. Infused with Kodo’s edgy design language, premium Japanese craftsmanship and fuel-efficient Skyactiv technology, sleek cars have helped Mazda find its niche in the Philippine market.

More than simply providing premium products to Filipino customers, Mazda Philippines revolutionized after-sales service by introducing the country’s first package ownership program, Yojin3 in 2013. This includes a three-year warranty and three-year support with three programs. One year of free scheduled maintenance service. In 2020, this has been extended to a 5-year free service plan.

These aftermarket initiatives have helped Mazda rank #1 on JD Power’s Customer Service Index (CSI) in 2016 and 2019. This level of customer service can now be experienced by one of 16 Mazda 3S dealers nationwide.

In addition to providing truly premium products and superior customer service, Mazda Philippines also maintains a close relationship with several Mazda Motor Clubs, fostering feelings of not only friendship but also is family.

Finally, Mazda Philippines’ commitment extends to sustainability with the opening of a net-zero-free factory in Cabuyao, Laguna – known as the Mazda Center of Excellence (MCOE) – in 2019.

Covering a total area of ​​2.5 hectares, the warehouse and training center demonstrate Mazda’s commitment to better serving the Philippine market. The facility can accommodate 952 cars on an area of ​​12,269 m². Car deposit is insured prior to delivery to the dealer. It produces its own electricity – up to 145,000 kWh per year – thanks to 270 solar panels. 

MCOE can also harvest and store up to 135,000 liters of rainwater, which can be used to wash Mazda vehicles before delivery and for general cleaning. MCOE is just one part of Mazda Philippines’ alignment with the brand’s overall long-term vision of Sustainable Zoom 2030. The program is based on three interconnected pillars: People, Earth, and Society.

Internally, Mazda Philippines provides an environment conducive to the growth of its employees, who have now become lifelong partners. The partnership with MFI Polytechnic Institute has resulted in the graduation of 230 students, some of whom have worked for Mazda Philippines, dealer partners and the automotive industry at large.