Ritsu Imaeda has stepped up as the new President & Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Mitsubishi Motors Philippines Corporation (MMPC). Imaeda replaces outgoing President & CEO Takeshi Hara who has served as the company’s boss for the past three years.
Takeshi Hara (left) and Ritsu Imaeda (right)
At the solemn turnover ceremony held at the Shangrila The Fort, Hara expressed his thanks to all of MMPC’s stakeholders. He likewise credited the MMPC team and the company’s partners for being able to achieve huge milestones despite the difficulties brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Besides welcoming his successor, Hara also reiterated MMPCs commitment to providing top-notch vehicle models and its unwavering dedication to the betterment of society. The latter was shown via the company’s “Life Made Better” and “Taralets Pinas” campaigns which were introduced during the outgoing CEO’s tenure.
MMPC’s new President & CEO Ritsu Imaeda meanwhile, is touted as an industry veteran with rich experience in handling numerous markets around the globe. Based on his extensive knowledge of automotive markets, Imaeda is hopeful for the growth of Mitsubishi in the Philippines.
Ritsu Imaeda is MMPC's new President & CEO
Imaeda likewise shared his plans for the local market, one of which is the future local launch of the Mitsubishi Xforce. Of note, the Xforce was launched for ASEAN back in 2023 and it is a stylish-looking subcompact crossover SUV propelled by a 104-horsepower 1.5-liter gasoline engine.
Once it launches for the Philippine market this coming June 2024, the Xforce will compete against the likes of the Toyota Raize, Toyota Yaris Cross, Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, and Honda HR-V, among others.
The ceremony ended with more expressions of thanks from both Hara and Imaeda. The latter in particular, likewise called for unity and collaboration amongst the Mitsubishi team and its stakeholders for the continuing success of the company.
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