Car dealers, repair shops to extend discounts

MANILA, Philippines - Car dealers and auto repair shops have agreed to extend the discounts given to victims of tropical storm Ondoy, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) announced yesterday.

“The President directed me to set-up a meeting with the Chamber of Automotive Manufacturers of the Philippines (CAMPI), Motor Vehicle Parts Manufacturers Association of the Philippines (MVPMAP), tire and battery suppliers, and independent auto repair shops so she can thank them personally for the discounts they are extending on repairs and clean-ups, as well as on replacement parts for vehicles partially or totally submerged in flood water,” Trade Secretary Peter B. Favila said.

CAMPI members include Hyundai Asia Resources Inc., Isuzu Philippines Corp., Kia Motors Corp., Mitsubishi Motors Philippines Corp., Nissan Motor Philippines, Inc., PGA Cars, Inc., Toyota Motor Philippines Corp., Universal Motors Corp., Asian Carmakers Corp., Columbian Autocar Corp., Scandinavian Motors Corp., and Honda Cars Philippines, Inc.

To accommodate the long queues, auto repair shops have to extend working hours, including weekends and had to add more technicians to attend to all these repair works, Favila said.

According to data submitted by independent repair shops, average cost of repair for fuel tank and/or engine filled with water is P35,000 depending on the extent of damage. Cost estimate is inclusive of change oil and tune up.

For damaged computer box, the cost depends on the model of the car, but prices range from P23,000 up to P60,000.

“The discount rates offered are really a big help to the victims of the flood. A five to 20 percent discount on parts and 50 percent on service will definitely go a long way,” said Favila.

The President once again, made an appeal to motor vehicle repair shops to keep prices at present levels and continue with their discount package to help reduce the cost of repair and lessen the burden to the typhoon victims.