PUVMP Unit Sales on a Roll, Isuzu PH Delivers 17 Units to Metroval

More modern jeepneys will soon be plying the Bulacan to Manila routes. This after Isuzu Philippines Corporation (IPC) turned over an initial 17 units compliant with the government's PUV Modernization Program (PUVMP) standards to Metroval TSC.

Metroval TSC Chair Celso Ensila Jr. noted the durability and dependability of Isuzu vehicles. "We chose Isuzu because we believe in the product that provides durability and at the same time fuel efficiency," he said. "As our cooperative grows, we are assured that through the newly acquired Isuzu PUVs, we can promote development of the transport service here in Valenzuela, improve the quality, and safety of the commuters, and to serve our mission to the community of Valenzuela." In an interview, Ensila said that they will comply with the PUVMP efforts of the government, saying that more units will soon follow. According to him, around a hundred units from their transport cooperative are eyed to be replaced. "We are still waiting for the bank and the government to approve, so we could buy more units," he said. Specifically, eight units of the modern jeepneys will go to the Malanday-Pier route, four units for Malanday-Divisoria, three units for Malanday-Recto, one unit for Malanday-Sta Cruz, and one unit for Meycauayan-Monumento.

The 17 modernized PUVs have been assembled using the Isuzu QKR77 platform, with the rear body designed and manufactured by Almazora Motors Corp. They are all air-conditioned Class 2 PUVs with a side-facing seat configuration. The Isuzu QKR platform is assembled in the Philippines and is equipped with Euro IV-compliant 4JH1-TC diesel engine that delivers excellent fuel economy. The new PUV body is compliant with Philippine National Standards (PNS 2126:2017), with the passenger cabin providing more space for passengers to move easily inside. The passenger door is safely situated on the right-hand side, facing the sidewalk. Other design features of the body include panoramic windows and windshields, full-body insulation, and automatic door closer. The Isuzu modern PUVs are "customized with various accessories such as WiFi, GPS, CCTV, LED displays and automatic fare collection system enabling cashless operations, all geared for passengers' safety and added convenience." Metroval TSC will not only provide world-class transport to its riding public but will also make it possible for the cooperative to reap the numerous aftersales advantages of IPC's vaunted 'PUV-X' program. The 'PUV-X' Program enumerates Isuzu's 10-Point Advantage:

1. Isuzu's proven reliability, durability and efficiency;
2. Experienced body builders;
3. Accredited accessories suppliers;
4. An unmatched 3-year or 150,000-kms warranty coverage;
5. Nationwide dealership network of 43 outlets and counting;
6. Expert Truck Executives (Truck Elites) to help customers;
7. Nationwide parts availability, competent and trained service technicians, technical assistance from Japanese and Filipino engineers, and Isuzu Service Medic vans for roadside assistance anytime;
8. Drivers and mechanics trainings;
9. Extensive fleet management system; and
10. All-around customer assistance.

The 17 modern PUVs that Metroval TSC is now using are the latest additions in support of the government’s efforts to modernize all PUVs by June 2020, as embodied in the PUV Modernization Program (PUVMP) that envisions the replacement of some 200,000 PUVs nationwide 15 years and older with new, safe and environmentally friendly vehicles.