MANILA, Philippines, 6 July 2017 – Ford Philippines today kicked off the 10th year of its global Ford Driving Skills for Life (DSFL) program, a United Nations-recognized training initiative that educates drivers about smart and safe driving skills to help minimize road accidents and promote fuel-efficient driving.

The kick-off of this year’s DSFL coincides with the implementation of the Department of Transportation’s Anti-Distracted Driving Law, which similar to Ford’s DSFL, aims to promote safe and disciplined driving among motorists to keep roads and passengers safe. 

“We’re proud to be celebrating the 10^th of DSFL in the Philippines, and to continue helping raise awareness about driver and road safety, as well as the dangers of distracted driving,” said EJ Francisco, AVP, Communications, Ford Philippines.

This year, Ford is planning for at least 1,500 drivers to participate in the DSFL training sessions. A specific focus this year will be on public utility vehicle (PUV) drivers such as bus, jeepney, school bus, and taxi drivers, recognizing their role as motorists is critical in ensuring that roads and passenger journeys are safe. 

DSFL is also expanding this year to cover key areas and locations nationwide such as Rizal, Pampanga, Baguio, Batangas, Laguna, Cebu, and Davao.

“We’re expanding the program to reach more drivers around the country and instill the importance of driver discipline and road courtesy,” explained Francisco.

At this year’s kick-off, Ford is partnering with Uber Systems Inc. by providing DSFL sessions for around 200 Uber drivers from greater Manila.

“We share Ford Philippines' advocacy for road safety and are happy to take part in this endeavor. We believe this complements our own efforts to promote road safety with the use of technology," says Uber GM Laurence Cua.

Since its local launch in 2008, more than 20,000 Filipinos have participated in sessions of the DSFL campaign, which has been customized for the Philippines to reflect the local driving environment and road conditions.

Working together with long-time partner Tuason Racing School, Ford provides an immersive and interactive training experience in its DSFL sessions. DSFL participants are provided with useful tips on vehicle maintenance, road safety measures, and fuel-efficient driving skills, as well as practical hands-on driving sessions to apply their learnings.

The Driving Skills for Life program also includes seminars for Ford employees, licensed student drivers, customers, corporate fleet accounts and automotive enthusiasts such as car clubs. The seminars are set to be held at various Ford dealerships nationwide and at select colleges and universities.

“We’re proud to be celebrating the 10^th of DSFL in the Philippines, and to continue helping raise awareness about driver and road safety, as well as the dangers of distracted driving,” said EJ Francisco, AVP, Communications, Ford Philippines.

About Ford Motor Company

Ford Motor Company is a global company based in Dearborn, Michigan. The company designs, manufactures, markets and services a full line of Ford cars, trucks, SUVs, electrified vehicles and Lincoln luxury vehicles, provides financial services through Ford Motor Credit Company and is pursuing leadership positions in electrification, autonomous vehicles and mobility solutions. Ford employs approximately 202,000 people worldwide. For more information regarding Ford, its products and Ford Motor Credit Company, please visit  www.corporate.ford.com

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