SUBIC BAY FREEPORT – One of the biggest suppliers of used heavy machinery from Japan has partnered with a company inside this free port to provide trucks and heavy equipment that could power up development in the countryside.

Japanese used machinery supplier AA Japan formally joined Filanka Subic Corporation here to open a $15-million investment project for a full-service vehicle dealership to sell high quality used vehicles.

With this partnership, AA Japan officials said the firm may help in the country’s development program in the field of infrastructure, agriculture and energy, as they demand high-quality, heavy-duty trucking and transportation, and heavy equipment services.

Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) Director Julius Escalona, who congratulated the partners in the launching ceremony here last Friday, said the new venture will most likely draw a lot of customers in the Central Luzon area, which is now experiencing a construction boom.

He noted that a lot of local companies engaged in transportation, construction, and agri-business have benefitted from using affordable used vehicles supplied from Japan.

AA Japan President and CEO Hameed Ramzan said they decided to partner with Filanka because of its proven track record in the industry.

“This will allow us to adapt our services and products to a broad customer base and develop multiple service offerings,” added Ramzan, who also expressed hope that their operations would boost economic growth in Subic.

“We aim to boost our network here, which may, in turn, strengthen the industry in this part of the country, as well as provide livelihood opportunities to nearby communities,” he added.

The $15-million partnership, which is slated to undertake expansion and provide full service in the country, would hire 200 skilled employees to do conversions, painting, engine maintenance, bodyworks, and other vehicle assembly jobs.

The two companies also plan to lease additional spaces for their yards.

Since 1996, AA Japan has become a source of quality vehicles, equipment, and machineries for contractors and procurers around the world and has developed a global network of branches and exclusive partners over the years.

Razman said that the firm deals with more than 10,000 customers throughout the world every year. “And our reputation of quality has never faltered,” he said.

The company helps individual customers choose the best car in stock and assist them in procurement. It also gives car dealers the opportunity to buy directly through a Japanese online auction with full export and shipment assistance.

 

TOP PHOTO: SBMA Director Julius Escalona (left) joins AA Japan CEO Hameed Ramzan, AA Japan COO Kogawa Teruyuki, and former Sto. Tomas, Pampanga mayor Romy Ronquillo in cutting the ceremonial ribbon to launch the business partnership between AA Japan and Filanka Subic Corp.