Suzuki takes to water to save lives
Floods are inevitable consequences of the Philippine archipelago’s geographic location and society’s deeply rooted traits. The western Pacific, where the country sits on, is at the crosshairs of an average of 20 tropical cyclones every year, according to the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA). Then society has to contend with flawed flood management measures from the government, and some behaviors and attitudes ingrained in our culture, to make floods not only recurring events, but worsening ones.
The problem is compounded by the fact that the entire planet is undergoing climate change, caused by both natural and man-made factors that are warming the atmosphere, leading to the melting of the polar ice caps and the rise in sea levels and the formation of more intense storms.
The most recent examples of this confluence of natural and man-made disasters occurred in the past two weeks, when three low-pressure areas formed within the Philippine area of responsibility (PAR) almost simultaneously, and quickly became severe tropical storms Crising, Dante and Typhoon Emong.
Individually and together, these three severe weather systems drenched the entire Luzon and most of the Visayas areas in unabated heavy rains for over a week, causing floods and landslides in many parts of the affected areas, particularly in Metro Manila. Worse, these three systems pulled in and intensified the seasonal monsoon rains–or Habagat–leading to even more heavy rains.
The province of Laguna, in particular, experienced heavy rains and floods during this time, as Laguna de Bay overflowed into low-lying areas.
The communities around Suzuki Philippines head offices in Laguna, for instance, experienced severe flooding and isolation, preventing families from leaving their houses and getting access to basic needs and emergency support.
That was when Suzuki Philippines Inc sprung into action. The wholly owned Japanese multinational firm that manufactures and distributes vehicles for use on land, such as motorcycles and compact vehicles, also makes outboard motors as well. It also has a marine department in its local operations.
Thus, at the height of the storms, Suzuki Philippines, through its marine department, swiftly extended assistance to the most heavily impacted areas.
Working in coordination with local government units and rescue teams, the company deployed specialized watercraft to aid in the mobility and relief efforts. An inflatable boat with a 6HP Suzuki outboard motor was provided to Biñan rescuers, while a poly boat equipped with a 15HP motor was deployed in Sta. Rosa. These boats played a crucial role in reaching areas where traditional vehicles and manually propelled boats could not.
In partnership with local responders, Suzuki’s marine equipment was used to deliver relief packages to families and communities stranded in their homes, particularly in Sikatville, where floodwaters were chest-deep. With safety and speed, the boats transported food and essential goods directly to the affected households. They not only delivered much-needed aid, but also restored a sense of connection and reassurance to families who were cut off from the outside world for days. Community leaders and rescue volunteers expressed their gratitude to Suzuki Philippines for the reliable equipment that significantly expanded their reach during this critical time.
Suzuki Philippines also recognized “that many private vehicles had also suffered severe water damage during the floods.” So, in a press statement, Suzuki Philippines said it has launched a” Flood Support Program aimed at helping owners of Suzuki vehicles recover more easily.”
It announced, “In line with the company’s commitment to safety and public welfare, this initiative offers a 30% discount on select control modules, specifically the Engine Control Module (ECM), ABS Control Module, Body Control Module (BCM), and SRS Control Unit that are typically affected by flood damage. The program applies to non-insured Suzuki vehicles, giving affected customers a practical option for safe restoration and continued mobility.”
It added, “In times of natural calamities, Suzuki Philippines stands by its belief that mobility is more than just movement, it is a means to care, to connect, and to uplift. Whether by land or by water, the company remains committed to delivering support and service where it matters most, and when it is needed most.”
Suzuki Philippines encourages its customers to have their vehicles checked out at any authorized Suzuki Auto dealerships nationwide, or they can visit auto.suzuki.com.ph/ and their social media pages on Facebook (Suzuki Auto PH), X, and Instagram.
