Hyundai starts making cars locally via Laguna plant

Following a strong Q1 sales performance, Hyundai Asia Resources, Inc. (HARI) inaugurates its first local assembly plant, which means Hyundai vehicles will now be manufactured in the country. Dubbed as the Hyundai Assembly Center (HAC), HARI’s newest milestone is located at Laguna Technopark in Santa Rosa, Laguna.

According to HARI, the plant currently holds the production of the brand's subcompact hatchback Eon and the H350 light commercial van. This is Hyundai's response to its increase in its business portfolio – a growing demand for passenger and commercial vehicles, which was also reflected on their Q1 sales report.

We take quality and excellence seriously at Hyundai. And it could not be more evident than in our operations at the Hyundai Assembly Center, where quality and excellence are a standard by which all workmanship is shaped. This is how we are able to guarantee seamless methods, efficient service, and products of superior value—the very things that every Filipino deserves,” said HARI president and CEO Ma. Fe Perez-Agudo.

This is a positive news for local buyers as HAC is said to provide better access to Hyundai units preferred by consumers, better yet, will generate more job opportunities to Filipinos.

Aside from generating additional jobs, manufacturers can directly react to varying vehicle demand. This allows them to assemble specific units that are well-received by the consumers.

Domestically, there are already a number of manufacturers who are producing some of their vehicles, such as Toyota, Mitsubishi, Honda, FOTON, and Isuzu. In 2015, Executive Order No. 182 or the Comprehensive Automotive Resurgence Strategy (CARS) Program was signed to enhance existing Motor Vehicle Development programs. Toyota and Mitsubishi are part of this scheme, whereas Hyundai has yet to announce its stand.