McDonald's supports riding safety advocacy


Continuing its safety awareness campaign, Safe-T-Ryders Training Center held its 2nd Club Meet-Up last Saturday, 24 March 2012, at the Quezon Memorial Circle, with McDonald's as one of the main sponsors.

"As part of the community and the everyday lives of Filipinos, McDonald's is happy to support initiatives that champion their safety and well-being,” says Margot B. Torres, VP Marketing of McDonald’s Philippines.

Former LTO chief Alberto H. Suansing exchanged views with riders belonging to the Underbone Fury Riders Club from Malabon, Bright Lights Club of Valenzuela, as well as BayTor Riders, Manressa Riders Club, RJ Riders (and Interstate Riders Club, all from Quezon City. During the discussion, Suansing stressed the potential benefits of the lane separators being installed along the Commonwealth Avenue.

A Safe-T-Ryders instructor conducted a demonstration using the much talked-about “Fatal Vision” goggles to emphasize the very damaging effects of riding under the influence of alcohol, and its severe consequences resulting in serious injuries and even death.  With the growing number of road crashes resulting from riding under the influence of alcohol, Safe-T-Ryders is mounting a campaign against riding motorbikes after taking alcohol.

According to founder Arnel Doria, "The Club Meet-Up program is part of our campaign to engage bikers club members in the active campaign to multiply the number of responsible and disciplined bikers.  This will be a continuing program for Safe-T-Ryders Training Center and we invite corporate partners to join us in this road safety advocacy."

The event was hosted by QC councilor RJ Belmonte who arranged for the spacious venue inside the sprawling Quezon Memorial Circle.  The 2nd Club Meet Up was also supported by AVT Intelligent Car Media, Blaze motorcycles and Gadgets Magazine.

Safe-T-Ryders Training Center believes that a sound knowledge base as well as strong riding skills result in safer road users and enhance the enjoyment of motorcycle riders. It was established by Arnel Doria, a former automotive marketing officer, who was instrumental in setting up the country's first integrated traffic education center. The training center is manned by Julius Ballesteros, a TESDA-certified instructor who has just completed a two-year stint as a safety driving instructor of a large Saudi Arabian company, and Sulfikar Guiabel, an experienced LTO-accredited riding/driving instructor.

To find out about upcoming events, please contact Safe T Ryders (Tel No. 208-8035 / Mobile: 0932-872-3389); or visit its FB page (www.facebook.com/safetryders).





Hyundai Elantra hailed as the 2011 - 2012 Car of the Year Philippines


MARCH 30, 2012 - The long wait is finally over. After spending a total of eight test days under the sun, several weeks tallying score sheets, and countless sleepless nights in anticipation, it all boiled down to one special awards night as the Car Awards Group Inc. (CAGI) hailed a new a successor to the Car of the Year title last March 29, 2012 at the 8th Manila International Auto Show (MIAS). Selecting through a total of 36 nominees and 11 finalists, the Hyundai Elantra is now the 2011 - 2012 Car of the Year Philippines (COTY-P).

The Hyundai Elantra stood out not only amongst the vehicles in its class, but also above the rest of the entries for this year's COTY-P. It ranked high in the Qualitative tests, where it was scored based on criteria such as aesthetics, comfort, and drivability, and was one of the top performers in the Technical test that evaluated the acceleration, braking, and handling characteristics of each vehicle, while offering great value for money. Presenting the award to the Hyundai Elantra once again proves that the title of Car of the Year Philippines is not for the fastest, cheapest, or most popular car in the market. Rather, it is an award for the car that offers best value to the consumers.

Making history, this is the first time that a Korean automaker has won Car of the Year in Philippines, and is the Elantra's fourth Car of the Year worldwide, winning the same title previously in Canada, North America, and South Africa. 

“The COTY-P award is well-deserved by the Hyundai Elantra and makes this the 4th COTY award received worldwide by the Elantra. The results are also a validation that CAGI's COTY testing procedures are internationally up to par,” remarked CAGI President Ferman Lao.

Aside from the prestigious Car of the Year title, there were also 11 category and special award winners recognized.

2011 - 2012 Car of the Year Category Winners:

Basic Subcompact Car Kia Picanto 1.0 M/T
Subcompact Car Suzuki Swift 1.4 A/T
Compact Car Hyundai Elantra 1.8 GLS A/T
Crossover Kia Sportage 2.0
Luxury Mid sized Car Volvo S60 T4
Luxury Compact Crossover MINI Countryman S
Midsize SUV 4x2 Mitsubishi Montero Sport 4x2 M/T
Midsize SUV 4x4 Mitsubishi Montero Sport GTV 4x4 A/T
Luxury SUV Ford Explorer V6 AWD
Pickup 4x2 Mitsubishi Strada 4x2 A/T
Pickup 4x4 Mitsubishi Strada 4x4 A/T


Special Awards

Standard Insurance Worry-Free Award Chevrolet Cruze Diesel
BOSCH Technical Innovation Award My Ford Touch Sync (Ford Explorer)
AAP Road Safety Award Volvo S60
Papa J's Best Value Award Kia Picanto 1.0 M/T
Caltex with Techron Enjoy the Journey Award Nissan Teana 350XV
Cartrige World iSwap iCare Award Suzuki Swift 1.4 A/T
All Terra All Activity Vehicle Award Toyota Hilux 3.0G 4x4
Victoria Court Most Spacious Award Foton MPX 2.8L CRDi Long Wheelbase
Red Rock Travel Most Affordable Car Award Lifan LF320 M/T
Speedlab Tuner's Choice Award Hyundai Elantra 1.6 M/T
Clark International Speedway Motorsports Award Tuason Racing School and Ford Group Philippines (TRS Cup powered by the Ford Fiesta)
For eight years running, CAGI has recognized the best vehicles in the market, awarding the coveted title of Car of the Year Philippines (COTY-P) to the car with the best value for money for consumers. The COTY-P awards is an annual consumer-oriented event organized by CAGI, a non-stock, non-profit organization composed of more than 50 motoring journalists from various print, broadcast, and online media outlets. 

The 2011 - 2012 COTY-P awards is presented by the Manila International Auto Show and is supported by the Clark International Speedway, SpeedLab, Caltex Techron, Standard Insurance, BOSCH, Worldbex, Ortigas Home Depot, Automotive Association of the Philippines, Cartridge World, Papa J's Witches n Wings, MG Madrid & Co., All Terra Cyclery,  Red Rock Travel, Life Line Ambulance Rescue, Winner Graphics, and Victoria Court with media partners Sunshine TV, Auto Extreme, Auto Review, Stoplight TV, Motoring Today, Auto Focus, 99.5RT, Jam 88.3, Wave 89.1, Kotse.com, Motioncars.com, Autoindustriya.com, Sprocket.ph, MotorCycle Magazine, Gadgets Magazine, Speed Magazine, C! Magazine, Power Wheels, Top Gear Philippines, Business World, Business Mirror, The Philippine Daily Inquirer, The Manila Standard Today, World News, The Philippine STAR, Daily Tribune, Malaya Business Insights, Manila Times, and The Manila Bulletin.

The Philippines' 2011 - 2012 Car of the Year is ready to be crowned


After 12 months, the Car Awards Group Inc. (CAGI) is once again ready to crown a new Car of the Year for 2011 - 2012. Scheduled on the opening day of the 8th Manila International Auto Show, the awards night will be held on March 29, 2012 at the Philippine Trade Training Center (PTTC) in Pasay City.

The entires are open to all new passenger and commercial vehicles introduced between November 1, 2012 and October 31, 2011. This year, a total of 36 cars in 13 different categories are vying for the title as the 2011 - 2012 Car of the Year Philippines (COTY-P) and range from as small as a basic mini car to a full-sized luxury SUV. 

In search for the next COTY-P, all the candidate vehicles went through a Qualitative test, based purely on “look” and “feel”, and a Technical test, analyzing acceleration, braking, and handling performance. Results of both tests are then tallied, analyzed, audited to finally come up with this year's winner.

“We're excited to be awarding the Philippines' 2011 - 2012 Car of the Year at the Manila International Auto Show. It's going to be an unexpected and surprise victory for our winner as it's kept under lock and key by our auditors at MG Madrid & Co. until the unveiling on the awards night,” said CAGI President Ferman Lao.

For eight years running, CAGI has recognized the best vehicles in the market, awarding the coveted title of Car of the Year Philippines (COTY-P) to the car with the best value for money for consumers. Among the awardees of the Philippine Car of the Year are the Honda Accord (2004), Honda Civic (2005), Mazda 6 (2006), Volvo C30 (2007), Subaru Impreza STI (2008), Subaru Legacy 2.5 Liter GT (2009), and the Chevrolet Cruze (2010-2011). With a varied array of past winners, the next COTY-P is anyone’s guess. 

The COTY-P awards is an annual consumer-oriented event organized by CAGI, a non-stock, non-profit organization composed of more than 50 motoring journalists from various print, broadcast, and online media outlets.

The 2011 - 2012 COTY-P awards is presented by the Manila International Auto Show and is supported by the Clark International Speedway, SpeedLab, Caltex Techron, Standard Insurance, BOSCH, Worldbex, Ortigas Home Depot, Automotive Association of the Philippines, Cartridge World, Papa J's Witches n Wings, MG Madrid & Co., All Terra Cyclery,  Red Rock Travel, Life Line Ambulance Rescue, Winner Graphics, and Victoria Court with media partners Sunshine TV, Auto Extreme, Auto Review, Stoplight TV, Motoring Today, Auto Focus, 99.5RT, Jam 88.3, Wave 89.1, Kotse.com, Motioncars.com, Autoindustriya.com, Sprocket.ph, MotorCycle Magazine, Gadgets Magazine, Speed Magazine, C! Magazine, Power Wheels, Top Gear Philippines, Business World, Business Mirror, The Philippine Daily Inquirer, The Manila Standard Today, World News, The Philippine STAR, Daily Tribune, Malaya Business Insights, Manila Times, and The Manila Bulletin.

Special discounts on AVT Navigation devices at Manila International Auto Show


Since its introduction of the AVT Navigator as the country's first-ever portable GPS navigation system with extensive local support for updated maps, the AVT Navigator product range has seen increased demand from motorists who appreciate a reliable road guide.

Exclusively for the 2012 Manila International Auto Show (MIAS)—to be held from March 29-April 1, 2012 at the World Trade Center, Roxas Boulevard, Manila—the AVT Navigator PN503 will be sale at the AVT booth at a very special discounted price.
The AVT Navigator PN503 features a 5-inch high resolution touch screen, SD card slot, multi-media functionality and voice prompt technology. Extremely portable, the PN503 can be set up in any car in minutes. Users can add favorite and home locations so it's easy to get back from unfamiliar places.

The AVT booth will also showcase AVT navigation devices and other multimedia systems customized for various vehicle models.  These include custom head units for the Honda CRV and Civic; Hyundai Accent, Elantra, Sonata and Tucson; Subaru Forester and Legacy; Toyota Camry and Prado; and others. These display units will also be offered at a special discount on the last day of the 2012 MIAS, on a first-come, first-served basis.

The strength of all AVT Navigator products is the strong local support provided by iNav, a company dedicated to updating and verifying the accuracy of local maps.  Comprehensive iNav map coverage now includes over 300,000 points of interest and house numbers combined and close to 100% of road networks for Metro Manila, as well as updated maps for over 200 key cities and municipalities in Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao.  The latest iNav upgrade incorporates the unique junction view, which provides a street-level depiction of critical waypoints.  For Metro Manila, users can now input house or building numbers for more accurate route information.

AVT will also be showcasing two concept products that are expected to hit the local market within the coming months. A ground-breaking new product that is sure to create waves among the techie crowd is an "android" car multimedia system. Billed as a multi-sensor GPS, entertainment and communication system with built-in Android OS Gingerbread 2.3 and Android Market downloadable, this revolutionary device brings mobile entertainment to new heights.

At the same time, AVT is introducing its AVT-TPMS (Tire Pressure Monitoring System) which displays real-time monitoring of both tire pressure and temperature.
Additionally, AVT will be partnering with Subaru for its signature Russ Swift Stunt Show, featuring professional stunt driver and Guinness record holder Russ Swift with his gravity-defying and awe-inspiring stunts.  Swift will perform his infamous reserve spin maneuver, handbrake parking, parallel parking, dance routine, car on two-wheels, and drifting/donut stunts.

AVT (which stands for Audio-Video Technology) specializes in premium audio-visual entertainment systems for mobile applications.  In addition to navigation systems, the company also carries a range of mobile tracking devices for vehicle and personal security.  AVT offers a wide range of in-car mobile electronics, including display monitors, DVD players, digital and analog terrestrial receivers, sound processor/high-power amplifiers, specialist speakers, and AV controllers and accessories to suit all types of in-vehicle installations.  Aside from consumer products that retail in car dealer accessories shops, 

AVT is also an original equipment manufacturer (OEM) for many of the country’s leading car brands.   iNAV is a subsidiary company dedicated to providing mapping support exclusively for AVT navigation devices. 

Safe-T-Ryders to hold Bikers Meet-Up in Quezon City

A  participant trying out  the much talked-about “Fatal Vision” goggles which emphasizes
the very damaging effects of riding under the influence of alcohol.

As part of its safety awareness campaign for motorcycle riders, Safe-T-Ryders Training Center will be holding its 2nd Biker Meet-Up on Saturday, 24 March 2012, at the Quezon Memorial Circle. 

The Bikers Meet-Up program starts off an open forum to listen and respond to urgent concerns of motorcycle riders, giving them an opportunity to dialogue on issues related to traffic regulations, safety ordinances, etc.  For the 2nd Bikers 

Meet-Up, former LTO Chief Alberto H. Suansing will once again listen to the bikers from Quezon City.
A unique feature of this meet up is a series of fun games that will put to test the riders’ mastery of handling their motorcycles.  Instructors of Safe T Ryders have created a set of exercises designed to bring out fun not only from the contestants but from all the riders gathered.

Another key component of the program will be a special presentation on the dangers of “Riding Under the Influence of Alcohol”. A  Safe-T-Ryders instructor will conduct a demonstration using the much talked-about “Fatal Vision” goggles to emphasize the very damaging effects of riding under the influence of alcohol, and its severe consequences resulting in serious injuries and even death.

Participants can also expect to take home exciting raffle prizes and give-aways, courtesy of  event sponsors McDonald’s Philippines, Petron Corporation, AVT Intelligent Car Media, Blaze motorcycles and Gadgets Magazine. 
“As part of the community and the everyday lives of Filipinos, McDonald's is happy to support initiatives that champion their safety and well-being,” says Margot B. Torres, VP Marketing of McDonald’s Philippines.

According to founder Arnel Doria, "The Bikers Meet-Up program is part of our campaign not only to promote safety awareness but also to engage club members in the active campaign to breed more responsible and disciplined bikers.  This will be a continuing program for Safe-T-Ryders Training Center and we invite corporate partners to join us in this road safety advocacy."

Safe-T-Ryders Training Center believes that a sound knowledge base as well as strong riding skills result in safer road users and enhance the enjoyment of motorcycle riders. It was established by Arnel Doria, who was the head of marketing for a leading car brand and was also instrumental in setting up the country's first integrated vehicle training center. The training center is manned by Julius Ballesteros, a TESDA-certified instructor who has just completed a two-year stint as a safety driving instructor of a large Saudi Arabian company, and Sulfikar Guiabel, an experienced LTO-accredited riding/driving instructor.

The Biker Meet-Up is open to bike club members as well as individual riders. Due to limited slots, interested participants are requested to pre-register and reserve a slot. Attendance if free of charge to qualified participants. For more information, please contact Safe T Ryders (Tel No. 208-8035 / Mobile: 0932-872-3389).  Like us on Facebook (www.facebook.com/safetryders) for event updates.


Petron receives prestigious CSR Award from Management Association of the Philippines


Petron President Eric O. Recto (center), together with Petron Foundation Executive Director Marilou G. Erni (3rd from L), Petron Environment Manager Edith G. Cabrera (3rd from R) receive the prestigious Integral CSR Award and the Environment and Sustainable Development Special Award at the 2nd MAP CSR Leadership Challenge. Also in photo are Petron Human Resources Management Department Head Ma. Rosario D. Vergel De Dios (far L), Petron Marketing AVP Ana M. Neri (2nd from L), SMC-Corporate Human Resources Head Ma. Cristina M. Menorca (2nd from R), and Petron VP for Supply and Operations Rowena O. Cortez (far R). 
The country’s leading oil company Petron Corporation recently marked another milestone as it bagged two coveted distinctions from the Management Association of the Philippines (MAP), including the Integral CSR Award for its success in making social responsibility an essential part of its business operations.

A feat unmatched by any other oil company, Petron bagged the prestigious Integral CSR Award at the 2nd MAP CSR Leadership Challenge for its “Growing. Greening. Giving Back: Making CSR and Sustainability a way of life in Petron” strategy along with the Best in Environment and Sustainable Development Special Award for its “Measuring, Managing and Minimizing our Environment Footprint in Bataan” program.

In winning the Integral CSR Award, the MAP recognized Petron’s relentless efforts to integrate social responsibility into its overall corporate strategy, as shown by the company’s commitment to care for the community and the environment, while achieving its economic objectives.

 “Our leadership in the oil industry is also fueled by our commitment to create a positive impact on every Filipino whose lives we touch on a daily basis,” Petron Chairman and CEO Ramon S. Ang said.  “This means conducting our business in a manner that places equal importance on our social and environmental commitments together with our business objectives.”

“We see the value of CSR in enhancing our business and its role in ensuring the long-term success of our business,” Mr. Ang added.

Meanwhile, in winning the Special Award for Environment and Sustainable Development, MAP recognized the company’s initiatives to preserve and protect the environment and promote sustainable development in the Province of Bataan, particularly in effectively managing its water use and consumption, waste generation, greenhouse gas accounting and air emissions inventory, as well as its leadership in implementing the Bataan Integrated Coastal Management Program.

The MAP’s CSR Leadership Challenge aims to promote and recognize exemplary corporate social responsibility policies, programs, and practices of the Philippines’ premier corporate citizens. In giving out the recognitions, MAP seeks to recognize companies whose management systems and programs clearly manifest their social vision. It also aims to ensure that companies who go beyond compliance and who are actively engaged in addressing the country’s social and environmental issues are acknowledged and emulated.

Petron turns over vehicles to Doble Panalo promo winners


Concordia Sosa (3rd from left), a sari-sari store owner from San Luis, Pampanga, receives the symbolic key to her new Honda Civic from Petron officers.
Marilyn V. Peña (2nd from left), a housewife from Biñan, Laguna, received her brand-new Toyota Hi-Lux at turnover ceremonies held at Petron headquarters last 27 February 2012. Mrs. Peña says she is a loyal Petron customer and always fuels up with Petron Turbo Diesel and Petron Xtra Unleaded because these are high-performance fuels.
With her are husband Mr. Peña (extreme left) and Petron executives (starting from 3rd from left): AVP-marketing Ana Neri, Metro Manila area sales manager Joselito Pojol, reseller services manager Michael Flores, reseller executive coordinator RC Fernandez and local station marketing manager Bong Paguia.

A housewife wins a Toyota Hi-Lux, a sari-sari store owner drives home a Honda Civic, and an airline mechanic is a proud Yamaha Mio Soul owner a after being picked as grand prize winners in the 1st Grand Draw of the Petron Doble Panalo promo.  The prizes were turned over at simple ceremonies held last 27 February 2012 at Petron headquarters.

The 1st Grand Draw, held last 20 December 2011, picked the following winners:  For the Toyota Hi-Lux, the winners were Marilyn V. Pena of Biñan, Laguna (Luzon); Linda Pondavilla of Ubay, Bohol (Visayas); and Demetrio Berza Jr. of Davao City (Mindanao). For the Honda Civic, the winners were Concordia Sosa of San Luis, Pampanga (Luzon); Retchelio Polenio of Ormoc, Leyte (Visayas); and Michelle Burdeos of Butuan City (Mindanao). Yamaha Mio Soul scooters were also given away to Victoriano Palma of Novaliches, Quezon City (Luzon); Armando Itang of Ormoc City (Visayas); and Carmelo Concon of Davao City (Mindanao).

Other prizes awarded during the 1st Grand Draw were six winners of a 47-inch LED TV, six winners of a Samsung Galaxy Tab, and nine winners of an Apple iPad 2.  In addition, there were 48 winners of a Petron eFuel Card worth P10,000 each.

The market acceptance and popularity of the promo resulted in a one-month extension of the promo to 29 February 2012 to allow give more customers a chance to enter the 2nd Grand Draw, which has been moved to March 2012.  Prizes for the 2nd Grand Draw include: Mitsubishi Montero (3), Yamaha Mio Soul motorcycle (3), 47-inch LED TV (6), Samsung Galaxy Tab (6), Apple iPad 2 - 32GB (9), and Petron eFuel Card worth P10,000 each (48).

In its biggest marketing promotion to end 2011 and start 2012 with a bang, Petron Doble Panalo gave Petron customers two chances to win prizes from Petron stations nationwide.  First, with every P1,000 single or accumulated purchase of Petron fuels—Petron Xtra, Petron XCS, Petron Blaze, Petron DieselMax and Petron Turbo Diesel—a customer was entitled to "Pick a Raffle Coupon" with an instant prize from the bunot box.  Instant giveaways include: free 1-liter fuel, Petron t-shirt, Petron sticker, San Mig 3-in-1 coffee, and Petron 2012 calendar. The same Raffle Coupon was then used to participate in the Doble Grand Draws, which had separate draws and separate winners for Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao.

Vision Petron recognized in Anvil Awards


Petron Corporation received four Anvil Awards for its Vision Petron National Student Art Competition at awarding ceremonies held last 24 February 2012 at the EDSA Shangri-la Hotel. 

The Anvil Award of Excellence was given for: (1) Vision Petron 11 Collaterals in the external publications category; and (2) Brushstrokes from the Heart: 365Day E-calendar in the digital-internet category.

Lakbay Pinoy earned an Anvil Award of Merit for public relations programs directed at specific stakeholders - special interest groups category, while the Petron Wall Calendar 2011: Dynamic Partnerships received another Anvil Award of Merit in the external publications category.
Vision Petron was the most eagerly awaited national student art contest and the Lakbay Pinoy contest theme garnered the biggest number of entries and number of school participation in 2011.

Over the years, Petron Corporation has been a consistent recipient of the Anvil Award, recognizing its high level of excellence in the practice of public relations to promote public interest, good values, and real public service.

The Anvil is awarded by the Public Relations Society of the Philippines (PRSP), the country's premier organization for public relations professionals, to outstanding PR programs and tools.