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The “changing of the guard” is a formal ceremony where a new, rested group of soldiers relieves the old group on duty at historic locations. It is often a highly choreographed, symbolic ritual representing a seamless transfer of responsibility and authority, mostly accompanied by marching bands and traditional uniforms. In the corporate world, the “changing of the guard” represents a formal transfer of power from the old leadership to a new executive and/or a new set of directors, usually with some pomp and ceremony.
The three major associations of the country’s automotive industry – the Chamber of Automotive Manufacturers of the Philippines, Inc. (CAMPI), the Truck Manufacturers Association (TMA) and the Electric Vehicle Association of the Philippines (EVAP) – had their respective “changing of the guard”, all within the first quarter of the year, without the marching bands, of course, but with the solemn transfer of authority and responsibility. The new leaders are accomplished individuals who took over from respected veterans who dedicated more than a decade to their respective positions.
Jose Maria “Jing” Atienza, CAMPI President
Jose Maria “Jing” Atienza, the Executive Vice President of Toyota Motor Philippines’ Marketing Division has been appointed as the new President of the Chamber of Automotive Manufacturers of the Philippines, Inc. (CAMPI). He takes over the reins from Atty. Rommel Gutierrez who steps down after a 14-year stint. With 35 years in the auto industry and a deep knowledge of the car industry and its inner workings, Atienza leads a 29-member bloc which account for around 95 percent of all vehicles sold in the Philippines.
“As CAMPI president, I am looking forward to sustaining current partnerships and forging new ones to help realize CAMPI’s vision; creating new opportunities for CAMPI members and our parts suppliers; and demonstrating through concrete actions the value that CAMPI brings to industry and its various stakeholders as a partner for growth,” said Atienza. The 2026 CAMPI officers include Vice President Atty. Rhys Alexi Murillo of Nissan Philippines; Corporate Secretary Robert Carlos of Isuzu Philippines, Treasurer Victor Vinarao of Mitsubishi Motors Philippines, and Assistant Treasurer Atty. Louie Soriano of Honda Cars Philippines.
Robert “Obet” Carlos, TMA President
Aside from his demanding job as the Division Head for Sales in Isuzu Philippines, Robert “Obet” Carlos is the Corporate Secretary of CAMPI and the new President of the Truck Manufacturers Association (TMA). Carlos and Isuzu are coming off a strong 2025, after the Japanese brand took the triple crown in truck sales, as it led all three major vehicle segments. Last year also marked Isuzu’s 26th consecutive year atop the local industry, after it posted a 42.2% market share with 4,794 trucks sold.
Under his leadership, TMA plans to actively participate in more government infrastructure projects, support logistics demands, and increase investments in fleet improvements while promoting more road safety initiatives. “Our member companies have been continuously innovating their products, while integrating advanced safety features and greener technologies to deliver dependable transport and business solutions for Filipino businesses around the country,” said Carlos. He will be working closely with TMA Chairman Emeritus Vicente “Bimbo” Mills Jr., of Hino Motors Philippines, who will help guide the association towards its new goals.
Willy Tee Ten, EVAP President
The President and Chief Executive Officer of the Autohub Group, Willy Tee Ten, adds another feather to his cap as the President of the Electric Vehicle Association of the Philippines (EVAP). He takes over from Edmund Araga, who led EVAP for more than 13 years. Araga continues his role as the President of the Asian Federation of Electric Vehicle Associations (AFEVA) while Tee Ten spearheads EVAP’s continued drive behind the country’s inevitable shift to sustainable transportation and electric mobilization.
The new set of EVAP officers are Vice President Carla Buencamino, Secretary Mark Rola, Treasurer Kevin Yao and Auditor Jojo Conde. With the guidance of Chairman Emeritus Ferdi Raquelsantos and Chairman Rommel Juan, Tee Ten plans to bridge the gap between traditional dealerships and electric innovation and make these work together. His “Green Roadmap” encapsulates his vision for a more robust EV infrastructure in the Philippines while his “Innovation First” strategy leads the charge in making eco-friendly mobility accessible to every Filipino.
Power Wheels Magazine congratulates CAMPI President Jing Atienza, TMA President Obet Carlos, and EVAP President Willy Tee Ten on their respective appointments and wishes all of them the best of luck in their individual and collective endeavors for the growth and success of the Philippine automotive industry.