MANILA, Philippines - International automotive supplier, tire producer, and industry partner Continental celebrated 40 years of highly successful operations in the Philippines. During this time the company invested approximately €197 million in paid-up capital and created more than 1,750 jobs.
”I am personally very happy to be able to say that both plants in Manila and Calamba were able to benefit from the developments of new technologies in the automotive sector. Both have always shown to be professionally run with highly motivated and skilled employees determined to make their plant a success. As a result, both plants have become important locations in the global manufacturing footprint of Continental around the globe—and rightfully so,” said Dr. Bernhard Klumpp, Executive Vice President of Continental’s Passive Safety & Sensorics Business Unit, who has strong links to both plants.
“With the focus on creating maximum value for our customers as well as attaining the trust and support of government agencies and our worldwide colleagues, we believe, that the Philippines have good resources and people to achieve our mission and commitment towards all stakeholders,” explained Lukas Rosulek, General Manager, Plant Manila.
Continental started its operations in the Philippines in Pasig in 1974, and then went on building its first manufacturing plant in Taguig City. In 2004, Continental built a second plant in Calamba, Laguna. There, an extended second manufacturing building was built, with production starting in September 25, 2008. Plant Calamba has opened up opportunities for approximately 1,000 jobs since it started in October 2004.
“The investments confirm the company’s strong commitment to the automotive industry in Asia and thus certifies the growth of business worldwide,” said Detlev von Ramm, General Manager, Plant Calamba. They reflect Continental’s strategy to build and strengthen the network and manufacturing operations in Asia where the company intends to make between 20 to 25 percent of its total sales by 2015.
“In 2012 a further important decision was made to invest into the production of Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) and airbag sensors here in Calamba. This was a very important decision for Calamba and its employees, especially because the ADAS sensors are experiencing very rapid growth, and—this is something I am personally convinced of—will continue to do so in the foreseeable future. And I’m especially proud to name officially today that Passive Safety & Sensorics business unit decided to establish Wheel Speed Sensor Manufacturing in Calamba,” Klumpp added. This will create approximately 1,500 new permanent high-qualified jobs for operators and skilled engineers.
Over the years, both plants have continued to make improvements to sustain its capabilities to remain an advanced technology state-of-the-art facility. Continental is committed to keeping high standards regarding manufacturing processes, production system procedures, supply chain, and equipment; thus ensuring performance, quality and cost-effective structures.
In addition, Continental’s strategy has been to develop the labor force in the area. This approach includes, for example, a successful partnership with various universities and an own
Apprenticeship and Higher Learning Educational University Program (referred to as Continental University)—148 students have been part of this program.
Continental is actively contributing to the development of students’ competencies by adapting the curricula to business requirements and offering the opportunity for practical experience within our company. Yearly, more than 65 students are part of Continental’s scholarship program, being prepared for their future workplaces.
Continental commemorated the occasion with government officials, business partners and colleagues.