Philippine GT champion Edwin Rodriguez pilots the all-new Mazda2 SKYACTIV

Last year, Edwin Rodriguez took home the Philippine GT 100 title in a spectacular fashion with his Mazda Philippines-sponsored Mazda2. For this year, that same winning spirit will continue as he pilots the all-new Mazda2 SKYACTIV.

Designed with Mazda’s “KODO – Soul of Motion” concept, the new “2” as Rodriguez would casually refer to it, now looks much more stunning and ready for action. But beneath that sporty exterior is Mazda’s SKYACTIV technology. Harnessing the capabilities of the new car’s SKYACTIV chassis, powertrain and suspension, Rodriguez once again competes in the 100-hp division of the PTCC and Philippine GT Championship to defend his titles.

“We found in Edwin that pure desire to compete even when the odds are stacked against him as we saw last year when he drove the outgoing Mazda2 to the championship. This year, timed with the release of the all-new SKYACTIV Mazda2, we believe Edwin can challenge with more confidence and consistency for the overall touring car championship title,” says Steven Tan, President and CEO of Mazda Philippines.

Mazda Philippines has entered 1 Mazda2 SKYACTIV hatchback racecar with a manual transmission for this year’s racing season. It comes painted in white with Rodriguez’ number 17 and a livery which adapts the kinetic aura of the KODO design.

The 2015 season’s opening round last May 17 at Clark saw Rodriguez cross the finish line in a promising 3rd place in both the Sprint Race and GT Race (see full race report here). This according to him is a part of his “getting to know” moment with the new car.

“I still consider us the underdog with the limited aftermarket parts for the all-new SKYACTIV Mazda2 race car. But now with a more powerful engine, we will surely give everyone in the division a great battle,” said Rodriguez.

Further developments shall be made in order for Rodriguez to unleash the car’s full winning potential. We look forward to see him and his new Mazda2 SKYACTIV racer in action again as the series heads back to Clark International Speedway (CIS) for the 2nd round on June 20 to 21.