For almost a decade, Bermaz Auto Philippines Inc (BAP), the exclusive distributor of Mazda vehicles and parts in the country, has been supporting underprivileged youths as Mazda scholars of the BAP Mazda-MFI Automotive Technology Scholarship Program.
This year, BAP and MFI Polytechnic Institute have welcomed its 10th batch of students. Ten new students will take a two-year program accredited by the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (Tesda) to help them develop skills that will prepare graduates for the automotive work environment.
“The BAP Mazda-MFI Automotive Technology scholarship program teaches students the fundamentals of engine operation and maintenance. More than that, they also learn to develop communicative, vocational, occupational, and interpersonal skills,” says Ed Lendio, program coordinator on special projects and in charge of the Mazda Scholarship Program.
Upon completion of the two-year course, students are expected to become proficient in repairing and servicing vehicles, assembling automotive systems, troubleshooting both simple and difficult automotive problems, and installing vehicular components according to every vehicle’s specifications. They will develop a holistic and positive work attitude. Some graduates are assigned to various Mazda Philippines dealerships to experience practical application and on-the-job training.
“Scholars who have graduated from the course have found gainful employment not only within the Mazda Philippines dealership network, but some graduates even end up working for BAP. Currently, there are three employed with us,” says Oliver Buan, BAP senior manager-technical and parts operations.
In line with Mazda’s global vision that aims to enrich people’s lives as well as society, BAP remains committed to supporting underprivileged youth who are striving hard to follow their dreams. BAP sees education as a transformative tool in people’s lives and is essential in breaking the cycle of poverty.
Formerly known as the MFI Foundation Inc, the MFI Polytechnic Institute has supported more than 270 scholars since 2014 with BAP’s sponsorship and direction. A total of 170 graduates have completed the automotive technology course utilizing the institute’s 2-year dual training system.
BAP is the exclusive distributor of Mazda vehicles and parts in the Philippines. Mazda Philippines’ exemplary after-sales service record has been ranked number one in the industry twice—in the 2016 and 2019 JD Power Customer Service Index Study. There are 15 Mazda 3S dealerships located across the Philippines and Metro Manila—Along C5, in Quezon Avenue, Makati, Alabang, Sta. Rosa, Pulilan, Pampanga, Dagupan, Cabanatuan, Tarlac, Cebu, Iloilo, Bacolod, Cagayan De Oro, and Davao.