The Isuzu Heart and Smile Project (IHSP) has celebrated the graduation of its 25th batch of scholars, marking 18 years of providing technical education and career opportunities for underprivileged Filipino youth through one of the country’s longest-running full-scholarship automotive training programs.
Held in Tacloban City, the ceremony recognized scholars who completed the two-year Automotive Servicing Course at the Isuzu–TESDA Auto Mechanic Training Center in Leyte. Graduates received the National Certificate (NC) IV, the highest certification awarded by the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) for the program, preparing them for careers in the automotive industry through advanced technical training and hands-on experience.
The program was established by Isuzu Motors Limited and is implemented in the Philippines through a partnership with Isuzu Philippines Corporation (IPC), TESDA, and World Vision. In addition to technical education, IHSP provides values formation and practical industry training aimed at helping scholars build sustainable careers.
Nearly Two Decades of Opportunity
Since its launch in 2008, the Isuzu Heart and Smile Project has graduated 473 scholars across 25 batches, demonstrating the long-term impact of industry and education partnerships in developing skilled automotive professionals.
Beyond technical competencies, the program emphasizes discipline, professionalism, teamwork, and strong work ethics. Many graduates have gone on to build careers with Isuzu dealerships, independent automotive service centers, manufacturing companies, and international employers, while others have established their own automotive servicing businesses.
Addressing the graduates, Mikio Tsukui, president of Isuzu Philippines Corporation, encouraged them to carry forward the values they had developed throughout the program.
“Today marks the beginning of a new chapter in your lives as working professionals. The companies that will welcome you undoubtedly have high expectations of you. With the technical skills, knowledge, and discipline you have acquired during the past two years, I am confident that you will be able to meet—and even exceed—those expectations,” said Tsukui.
Looking Ahead
While Batch 25 celebrated its graduation, IHSP also welcomed Batch 29, composed of 18 new scholars who will undergo training through 2028. The ceremony included technical skills demonstrations by current students and recognition for outstanding graduates, highlighting the program’s continued focus on technical excellence and lifelong learning.
Tsukui also underscored the broader impact of the scholarship program.
“At Isuzu, being a Responsible Partner means investing in people and creating opportunities that last beyond the classroom. Seeing Batch 25 graduate reminds us that the true success of this program is measured not only by the number of scholars we have trained, but by the lives they have transformed, the families they now support, and the communities they continue to uplift. We are proud to support this meaningful partnership and remain committed to helping develop the next generation of skilled Filipino automotive professionals,” he said.
As IHSP marks its 25th graduating batch, Isuzu Motors Limited, Isuzu Philippines Corporation, TESDA, and World Vision reaffirm their shared commitment to expanding educational opportunities and developing the next generation of Filipino automotive professionals.
In Summary
The Isuzu Heart and Smile Project has reached another milestone with the graduation of its 25th batch of scholars. Over 18 years, the scholarship program has produced 473 graduates through its partnership with TESDA and World Vision, equipping underprivileged Filipino youth with the technical skills and values needed for successful careers in the automotive industry.