“Today, we are not just celebrating the handover of another Hino unit—we’re celebrating the partnership and mutual trust between Hino and First Balfour,” Mr. Shingo Sakai, HMP’s President, stated during the turnover ceremony. “First Balfour continues to uplift the quality of life for our fellow Filipinos through innovation and excellence in engineering, construction, and project management.”

The all-new Hino FG buses boast durability, reliability, and fuel-efficiency, and are equipped with features designed for superior performance and passenger comfort. These units, proudly manufactured, assembled, and distributed from Hino’s main plant in Laguna, exemplify the company’s dedication to local production and quality.

Key highlights include the robust Hino J08E-WF Engine, Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) for enhanced safety, and advanced suspension system with stabilizers and double-acting shock absorbers for comfort and anti-roll stability.

The all-new Hino FG bus also comes in 3 variants: Deluxe Aircon, 2x2 Seat Configuration, 45 Passenger Seating Capacity plus 1 Driver and 1 Crew; Regular Aircon, 2x3 Seat Configuration, 61 Passenger Seating Capacity plus 1 Driver and 1 Crew; and the Regular Non-Aircon, 2x3 Seat Configuration, 61 Passenger Seating Capacity plus 1 Driver and 1 Crew.

These units also offer a modern aesthetic with new headlight and taillight designs, stylish front grilles, and a well-appointed interior featuring new seat upholstery, infotainment systems, and USB chargers for passenger convenience during long journeys. Maintenance is also made easier with features like the Brake Retarder, which reduces wear and tear, and Auto-Greaser, prolonging parts life and minimizing manual adjustments.

The units turned over to First Balfour will be utilized as dedicated transport services for their workers in Leyte. This initiative underscores both companies’ commitment to enhancing workforce mobility and ensuring safe, reliable transportation for personnel in the region.

The ceremonial turnover of four new FG bus units to First Balfour was led by Hino Motors Philippines (HMP) President Shingo Sakai, along with other HMP executives and managers. They were joined with Representatives from First Balfour’s operations, supply chain, and fleet teams. The event highlighted the strong partnership and continued collaboration between the two companies.

“We are truly honored by your presence and thankful for choosing and placing confidence in Hino,” Mr. Sakai added, addressing First Balfour. “Your trust drives us to uphold the standards of quality, reliability, and service that our brand stands for.”

Adding to this, Mr. Joey Oyos, Operations and Maintenance Manager at First Balfour, shared his thoughts: “These new Hino FG buses are a testament to our unwavering commitment to operational excellence and our continued trust in Hino’s dependable vehicles. With their enhanced performance and durability, they will significantly boost our capacity to support and deliver on our project requirements more efficiently.”