Kia Philippines backs EJ Obiena as Atletang Ayala continues championing Filipino athletes

Kia Philippines is doubling down on its support for Filipino pole vault star and Olympian EJ Obiena, making sure he stays mobile as he continues to fly the Philippine flag on the world stage. The initiative reflects Kia’s global “Movement That Inspires” philosophy and ties in neatly with the Ayala Group’s wider push to support athlete development through programs like Atletang Ayala.

At the heart of the partnership is something Kia knows well: dependable mobility. Kia Philippines continues to provide Obiena with dedicated vehicle support as he trains and competes across different parts of the world, helping him focus on performance rather than logistics.

That support was felt during Obiena’s recent trip home for the Atletang Ayala World Pole Vault Challenge, where Kia served as the event’s official mobility partner. Throughout his stay, Obiena was chauffeured in a Kia vehicle, while a Kia Sorento Turbo Hybrid handled his other engagements around the country. The support doesn’t stop at local events, either. In Italy, where Obiena is based for training, Kia has tapped into its global network to provide him with a dedicated vehicle for daily use. 

“I’ve mostly driven Kias my whole life, from my first car to the Sorento I used while I was in the Philippines,” said EJ Obiena. “It’s kind of poetic that the brand I started with is now a partner in my journey. Kia has always been purposeful, capable, and stylish, just like how I approach my sport.”

Kia’s backing of Obiena also highlights a broader commitment to Filipino athletic excellence, anchored by the Ayala Group’s long-standing support for national sports development. Through Atletang Ayala, athletes receive full-salaried employment, flexible work arrangements, and access to world-class training and medical facilities—support that extends well beyond competition day.

National shooting athlete and Atletang Ayala member Amparo Acuña, who is also set to compete in the 2025 SEA Games, shared how Kia and Ayala’s programs have made a real difference in her journey.

“I’ve always appreciated how reliable and spacious Kia vehicles are, especially when I'm carrying my gear,” shared Acuña, national shooting athlete and member of Atletang Ayala. “I used to drive an older Kia, and it was perfect for my needs. It made every trip to training and competitions so much easier. It's inspiring to see Ayala supporting athletes like us while continuing to champion the spirit of purpose and performance.”

Looking ahead to the 2025 SEA Games, Kia is set to spotlight Atletang Ayala athletes through a series of short-form videos, sharing their stories in a bid to inspire the next generation of Filipino talent.

Through ACMobility, Kia Philippines, and Ayala Foundation, the Ayala Group continues to push a shared vision of movement with meaning—supporting Filipino excellence on and off the field. As Lopez puts it, “This partnership goes beyond providing vehicles. It’s about supporting Filipino excellence in all forms, on the road, in sport, and in life. We want Kia to be a brand that moves people to achieve more and reach higher.”

Inspired to choose Kia as the next brand you buy your car from? Visit the Kia Car Guide on AutoDeal.com.ph for a full view of the brand’s local lineup.