15 scholars graduate from Isuzu Heart and Smile Project as 27th batch begins training

15 Isuzu Heart and Smile Project (IHSP) scholars graduated from a two-year Automotive Servicing Course, earning their NC-IV qualifications, on June 20, 2025, at the Isuzu-TESDA Auto Mechanic Training Center in Tacloban, Leyte. Through a collaboration with the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) and World Vision, Isuzu Motors Limited Japan (IML) aims to provide holistic automotive education to underprivileged youth and advance their careers in after-sales service.

Established in 2008, the course has since produced 436 graduates, equipping them for a career in automotive servicing with the help of the TESDA automotive servicing curriculum, along with a specialization in Isuzu diesel technology through additional classes offered by Isuzu. Guaranteeing employment to a significant majority of IHSP’s graduates, they are poised to make an impact in top global markets in Asia, the Middle East, and the United States.

Tetsuya Ikemoto from Isuzu Motors Limited, in his address, emphasized how IHSP is helping both the Philippines’ automotive industry to grow and Filipinos who want to be a part of the industry by providing the education they need to further their automotive career. The IHSP also complements Isuzu’s commitment to delivering the best after-sales services to its customers by producing graduates capable of working with Isuzu engines with skill and precision. Ikemoto hopes that the previous, current, and future graduates will use the skills they learned to satisfy customers and contribute to the development of the company and the Philippines.

Following the graduation ceremony, IHSP welcomed 18 new scholars as the 27th batch who will be training in automotive servicing until 2027. During the welcoming, scholars from batches 24 through 26 conducted a special skills demonstration that will serve as an inspiration for the incoming batch.

Tsukui wished nothing but success for the new scholars, both in their own career pursuits and as members of the Isuzu dealer network.

The Isuzu Group, along with its partners, aims to fulfill its commitment to communities and society as “Your Responsible Partner,” as well as provide the best sales and after-sales services to its customers through the Isuzu Heart and Smile Project.