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Centro fields 7 modern Eco PUVs at the first-ever Philippine Auto Parts Expo

By Randy
.
October 14, 2017

One of the key exhibitors in the recently-concluded first Philippine Auto Parts Expo (PhilAPEX) was Centro Manufacturing Corporation (CMC). In the said event, Centro showcased 7 of the 16 examples of the modern jeepney or otherwise known as the eco Public Utility Vehicle (Eco PUV).

As an idea, CMC has been in the business since 1996. It focuses its operation in manufacturing quality aluminum vans and passenger van bodies. It’s been partners with Isuzu Philippines Corporation since 1999 to build the Japanese automaker’s passenger vans and pickup bodies for the local market and police force.

Currently, CMC is championing the modernization of the country’s iconic jeepney PUV. This stride to make the jeepney keep up with the times is the brainchild of the Department of Transportation (DOTr), seeing the need for the historic PUV to be safer, more convenient, and more environmentally-friendly (hence the Eco PUV moniker).

CMC’s display consisted of 5 Eco PUV units and 2 of the country’s only purely-electric Eco PUVs. All these were built to comply with the new Bureau of Philippine Standards PNS 2126:2017 (Phil. National Standards No. 2126 Series of 2017).

To make it simple, the PNS 2126:2017 is a set of standardize measurements of the modern jeepney body and structure. These dimensions serve to make the modern jeepney safer, cleaner, and more convenient for the commuters, especially the elderly, preagnant, and persons with disabilities (PWDs).

Best part about the jeepney modernization program is that it is a part of the country’s Comprehensive Automotive Resurgence Strategy (CARS) program. The CARS program highlights the best of what the Philippines has to offer in terms of manufacturing vehicles and vehicle parts. This, in turn, would strengthen economy and generate jobs.

Of note, the CARS program has 3 slots for its participants. The first 2 were taken by Mitsubishi Motors Philippines Corporation (MMPC) and Toyota Motor Philippines (TMP). The budget and opportunity for the 3rd slot was handed to the PUV modernization program.

“We look forward to supplying the demand for the PUV Modernization Program and bringing the country closer to having a world class and modern mass transport system that the Filipino people deserve. Let us all support the modern Eco PUVs since they are made in the Philippines. Gawang Pilipino para sa Pilipino," said CMC COO Jerryme Garcia.

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About the Author

Randolph de Leon
Randy is a person with disability (PWD), a partially-blinded person with only his left eye functioning. Since childhood, the automobile has always been his passion, and is able to express it through photography and most recently, through writing as well. Outside the motoring beat, Randy spends time manning the media aspect of his business which he co-founded with his sister/college classmate. It's called Dragonlight Wellness and Solutions, a multi-business venture centering on improving peoples' lives through earning.