Isuzu Heart and Smile Project now 17 years old

MANILA: In a span of 17 years, the Isuzu Heart and Smile Project (IHSP) produced 24 batches of scholars highly capable of being skilled professionals in the automotive industry.

All in all, the program spearheaded by Isuzu Philippines Corporation — created in collaboration with Isuzu Motors Limited Japan (IML), the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA), and World Vision Philippines — provided holistic automotive education to more than 455 underprivileged individuals.

For the latest group alone, a total of 19 individuals earned their own National Certificate IV (NC IV) after they finished the two-year Automotive Servicing Course at the Isuzu-TESDA Auto Mechanic Training Center in Tacloban, Leyte.

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 The curriculum blends TESDA’s standard automotive servicing training with specialized modules on Isuzu diesel technology — equipping scholars with both foundational and brand-specific skills to meet real-world industry demands.

Per IPC, the program had a 95-percent employment rate — with 68 percent of graduates employed locally, 24 percent overseas, and three-percent running their own business.

Some of the IHSP alumni have gone on to work in Japan, Australia, Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates, Qatar, and the United States.

“The automotive industry in the Philippines has been steadily growing year after year, and more and more people are aspiring to build their careers in this field,” IML Executive Vice President of the International Sales Division Koji Nakamura noted in his address to the graduates.

“As you begin your careers, I hope you will always keep the following three things in mind. Use the skills you have learned at this school to satisfy and serve your customers. Contribute to the growth and development of your company and of the Philippines. Never forget the gratitude you owe to your families who have supported you along the way,” the official said.

After the 24th batch graduated, the IHSP welcomed 18 students that will comprise Batch 28. They will undergo training until 2027.

Several graduates were also recognized for their outstanding performance, reinforcing the program’s commitment to excellence and continuous growth.

To provide inspiration, current students from Batches 25 to 27 conducted a Skills Demonstration, showcasing the technical expertise and professionalism they have acquired.

For his part, IPC Executive Vice President Yasuhiko Oyama reaffirmed the brand’s dedication to youth development.

“It is a great honor to witness the legacy of the Isuzu Heart and Smile Project with the graduation of Batch 24, who will go from students to professionals who can offer their skills as key members of the Isuzu dealer network both locally and internationally. I am confident that they will be integral to the company, to our valued customers, and to society,” he was quoted as saying.

Aside from the IHSP, IPC is also extended help to various technical-vocational institutions — the latest was with Valenzuela City Technical College wherein they handed over an Isuzu D-MAX 4x2 LS AT and Crosswind XL MT to let students conduct hands-on diagnostic, maintenance, and repair exercises using real vehicles rather than simulators.         

Also read:

Batch 23 scholars finish Isuzu-TESDA-World Vision auto servicing course

Isuzu Heart and Smile Project Batch 22 scholars completes course

19th Batch Of Scholars Complete Auto Servicing Course Under ‘Isuzu Heart And Smile Project’

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