CLARK FREEPORT ZONE—China’s top commercial vehicle manufacturer is set to invest $35 million for an assembly line in this freeport zone.
Clark Development Corp. (CDC) President Felipe Antonio B. Remollo said a term sheet had recently been signed by the United Asia Automotive Group Inc. (UAAGI) which plans to lease a 50,000-square-meter area in the Clark Freeport for the establishment of an assembly line for Foton vehicles that will be marketed to Association of Southeast Asian Nations (Asean) member-nations.
Remollo said Foton Motors is China’s biggest commercial vehicle maker and one of the fastest-growing factories in the world. The company has two huge assembly plants in Beijing and, through UAAGI, aims to employ thousands of Filipino workers.
The Chinese automobile maker’s entry into the Clark Freeport will be the first for such an industry.
UAAGI plans to manufacture ambulances, pickups, vans and trucks made by Foton Motors. Foton vehicles are known for their functional style and competitive prices.
The Foton MPX Van won an award from the Car Award Group Inc. as the Best Multipurpose Van in 2009.
Foton Motors Philippines, operated by UAAGI, is headed by its president, Rommel Sytin and takes pride in being the first Filipino company to compete in the vehicle manufacturing industry by offering its products in the Asean market.
Foton products distributed in the Philippines include the Blizzard Turbo 4×2 and 4×4 pickup truck; the View Ambulance van and the View 15-seater van; and MPX vans with captain’s seats. Truck models in the local market include the Hurricane cab and chassis, drop-side and aluminum van; the Tornado Series 3.5L, 2.5 and 2; the Cyclone, Wind, and Mini Coach.
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By: Jacob Cunanan
Source: Business World, Oct. 13, 2011
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