Three years after the groundbreaking ceremony, FOTON Philippines officially opened its assembly plant at the Clark Freeport Zone, Pampanga, last 12 February 2016.
The 11-hectare assembly plant is the first such facility inside the Clark Freeport Zone, consisting of two facing lots right behind the Clark Expo. The first lot houses the assembly and other production operations, while the second serves as a stockyard. Futon plant operations can be determined through the three major facilities, namely: Unit assembly in Building A; a 4, 200-square meter parts warehouse and pre-delivery inspection area in Building B; and body fabrication in Building C. At full capacity, the single assembly line could produce a total of 12,000 units per year. There are plans to add another assembly line soon, to meet increased production demand for Foton vans.
During his opening remarks, Foton Philippines president Rommel Sytin extended his sincerest gratitude to those who shared Foton’s long journey on the road to success. “Having been in the automotive industry for quite a while already, this assembly plant is truly the ultimate goal that my brothers and I had,” says Sytin. He also commended his Foton family for their support in achieving this milestones in the history of Asia’s largest vehicle manufacturer.
Together with Foton’s partner banks, financial institutions, the media and its dealers, the event was also participated by honorable guests namely Pampanga governor Lilia Pineda, Clark Development Corporation president Atty. Art Tugade, BCDA president and CEO Atty. Arnel Paciano Casanova, and Customs commissioner Alberto Lina.
As the plant officially starts its operation, it is anticipated that Foton’s development in the automotive market will become more evident in the coming years as they ramp up production. This will also create more work opportunities for local workers in the region.
Foton’s humble beginnings have brought promising returns. Starting from a sales volume of 100 units in 2007, Foton sold almost 4,000 units in 2015. “By the year 2020, Foton Philippines aims to achieve an annual sales volume of 20,000 units.” says Sytin.
To know more about Foton vehicles and sales promos, visit any of the Foton dealerships nationwide, or call (02) 459-2121. You may also visit their website at www.foton.com.ph.
