By this time, you’ve probably seen different stories on the internet about the official arrival of the British luxury brand Jaguar Land Rover in the Philippines. For some who don’t know, about 5 months ago the brand had announced its temporary closed down from its previous importer and distributor Soong family, who also managed some of the ultra-luxury car brand such as Ferrari and Maserati.

After long wait, Jaguar Land Rover Asia Pacific Importers made an officially announcement yesterday that Jaguar Land Rover importation and distributorship in the Philippines, has been awarded to a newly company Coventry Motors Corporation (CMC).  

The appointment was done through contract signing at the Manila Golf and Country Club, where executives from Jaguar Land Rover Asia Pacific Importers and Coventry Motors Corporation (CMC) were introduced from the members of the Philippine media. 

Representing JLR Asia Pacific Importers were Robin Colgan, Managing Director of Asia Pacific Region and Andy Wust, Customer Service Director of JLR Asia Pacific.

“It is my pleasure to welcome you here today, to share with us this special moment that marks a new journey between Jaguar Land Rover and Coventry Motors Corporation. This partnership brings about a new chapter in the history of Jaguar Land Rover in the country and presents us with another opportunity to reinforce our strong performance and position in the premium car segment,” said Robin Colgan, Managing Director of JLR Asia Pacific Region, during his welcome remarks to the press.

“The Philippines’ robust growth of 6.9-percent in the last quarter – which has surpassed that of even China – is a clear indication that this is a market that holds remarkable promise and potential for quality premium cars that will meet the needs of a sophisticated and developed consumer base,” Colgan added.

Meanwhile, Steering the wheel of Coventry Motors Corporation (CMC) is long-time car manufacturer executive Gerardo “Gerry” Alejandro. Alejandro has more than 25 years of senior management experience. Prior to his appointment as president of CMC,  Alejandro was President at Hanesbrands Philippines Inc, Managing Director of Mazda Philippines, and Vice President for Key Account Management at Alcatel Philippines.

“We are very excited and honor that we were selected to carry the brand Jaguar and Land Rover in the country. I am honor and privilege to work with great organization and excellent people from CMC,” said Alejandro.

With the implementation of excise tax for vehicles next year, some of luxury car brand such as Jaguar Land Rover might be put into test. But Alejandro draws optimism that the company will be able to achieve its goals and significant growth in the market, despite of the proper implementation of the tax reform bill. “Our plans and decision to venture into this, and our optimism already factored the situation. While we recognized the arrival of excise tax, we already prepared our long-term commitment towards success of the business,” he said.

The company vows to open its first dealership in the first quarter of 2018.