New president takes over at Mitsubishi

MANILA, Philippines—Hikosaburo Shibata is all set to become president and CEO of Mitsubishi Motors Philippines Corp.

His term begins on April 1.

Currently the company’s corporate GM, Shibata will take over Masahiko Ueki who concludes his three-year assignment in the country. Ueki will move on as the new executive officer and corporate GM of Mitsubishi Motors Corp.’s Asia and Asean Office.

Ueki will be leaving a company that is now considered one of the pillars of the country’s motoring industry.

It was during his term when MMPC was able to strengthen its hold of the country’s automotive market, becoming its second-strongest player next only to Toyota Motor Philippines.

“MMPC’s strong market presence in the country is a testament of its continued commitment of providing quality vehicles that offer utmost driving pleasure and safety for our valued customers and community,” commended Shibata.

Global role

He added that the company also recognizes its role as global citizen, and with that Mitsubishi aims not only to work toward the achievement of its sales goals but also to work with the society and for the environment.

“I am very much excited and at the same time challenged to pursue these commitments and keep MMPC’s positive growth streak,” said Shibata.

In spite of the global financial crisis that affected the automotive industry in 2009, MMPC was able to achieve a double-digit growth of 33 percent and even improve its market year to 17.6 percent.

The company’s efforts to provide quality products and the best service to customers enabled MMPC to top the JD Power CSI and SSI studies that same year.

Solid growth

In 2010, MMPC closed the year with a solid 39 percent sales growth and 19.2 percent market share.

Shibata’s more than 30 years of vast experience in various foreign markets handled by Mitsubishi Motors Corp. makes him more excited to lead Mitsubishi Motors’ operation in the Philippines.

Shibata joined MMC in 1978 right after finishing Law at the Seikei University. His first assignment was at the Production Control Department.

MMPC will formally introduce Shibata in a turnover ceremony on April 4.