Isuzu Philippines Corporation (IPC), together with dealer partner Isuzu Calapan, has supplied two Isuzu NPR85 Class III PUVs to Perlas RCG Transport Tours Corp., a transport cooperative based in Ibaan, Batangas.
The turnover, held on August 15, 2026, forms part of the cooperative's efforts to modernize its fleet and improve mobility services in the province. The two units will operate along the Lobo to Lipa City route and back, providing commuters with a more modern and comfortable option for longer daily trips.
The ceremony was attended by representatives from the cooperative, local government, financing partners, and suppliers involved in the project. Ibaan Mayor Jane Casas also expressed confidence in the Isuzu brand, citing its reputation for durability and reliability based on her own experience and those within the construction industry.
“We are honored to be part of Perlas RCG Transport Tours' mission of serving commuters in Batangas. Partnerships such as this reflect a shared commitment to improving the transportation experience of everyday Filipinos, and we look forward to supporting their operations not only through our reliable and fuel-efficient vehicles, but also through Isuzu’s unmatched Aftersales support.”
The NPR85 Class III PUV is based on Isuzu's established N-Series truck platform and is designed for the demands of regular public transportation. Its higher gross vehicle weight and payload capacity make it suitable for provincial and inter-city routes, where operators need a vehicle capable of handling continuous daily use.
Passenger comfort is also a key part of the setup. The body, built by CENTRO, features front-facing seats designed to provide a more conventional and comfortable seating arrangement for longer journeys. The cabin is enclosed and air-conditioned, with the cooling system supplied by Country Cool Phils., offering passengers better protection from heat, rain, dust, and other elements. High ground clearance further helps the vehicle handle varying road conditions, particularly during the rainy season.
Under the hood, the NPR85 Class III PUV is powered by Isuzu's 4JH1-TC diesel engine. Fuel efficiency remains an important consideration for transport operators, especially as fuel costs continue to make up a significant portion of daily operating expenses.
For Perlas RCG Transport Tours, the new units bring together passenger capacity, durability, comfort, and fuel efficiency in a package designed for the realities of provincial public transport. The turnover also highlights the continued role of commercial vehicle manufacturers and transport cooperatives in supporting the ongoing modernization of public transportation across the country.
