A seasoned automotive executive, Mikio Tsukui is now behind the wheel of Isuzu Philippines Corporation (IPC).
During a recent turnover ceremony, Tsukui formally assumed his top role at IPC from Tetsuya Fujita, marking a milestone in the company’s leadership transition.
Scaling up his credentials as a home-grown talent of Isuzu Japan, Tsukui succeeds Fujita, who has returned to Isuzu Motors Limited in Japan after a successful tenure leading IPC.
Tsukui, a would-be sisig taster and American football enthusiast, has over thirty years of experience within the Isuzu Group, managing operations in several key global markets.
His previous assignments included leadership roles in China and Europe, where he enhanced Isuzu’s market positioning and operational efficiency.
Tsukui also oversaw business strategies in the ASEAN region, including Malaysia, where he was pivotal in regional growth initiatives.
According to IPC, his diverse international experience gives Tsukui a “broad perspective and a deep understanding of dynamic market environments.”
On the other hand, Fujita, the outgoing IPC president, was the brains behind several impactful initiatives that strengthened IPC’s market leadership and reinforced its commitment to future-ready mobility.
Notably, Fujita spearheaded the company’s “Road to Progress” campaign by igniting public interest in sustainable transport and teasing the introduction of Isuzu EV trucks. Under his leadership, IPC also introduced more lifestyle activities like Overland trips and accelerated the expansion and modernization of its dealer network, ensuring broader reach and improved customer service nationwide.
The IPC statement said these strategic gains and directions will be carried forward under Tsukui’s stewardship.
In his inaugural address, Tsukui vowed to continue “our mission of delivering reliable and innovative transport solutions to our customers.”
He said, “With our dedicated team, we will strive to enhance our services and contribute to the growth of the Philippine automotive industry.”
Tsukui also outlined his mission for IPC moving forward: Sustain Isuzu’s stronghold as the
number one truck brand in the Philippines, introduce more aggressive offerings in the Light Commercial Vehicle (LCV) segment, and continuously expand IPC’s dealership network nationwide.
These initiatives aim to boost IPC’s market share and strengthen its presence, particularly in the growing LCV sector.”
The leadership transition comes at a pivotal time for IPC. It follows the unveiling of the 2025 Isuzu mu-X at the Manila International Auto Show, which began a new chapter for the company.
The recent change of guard signaled what IPC called a renewed focus on innovation, design, and customer-centric upgrades in its product offerings.
With an eye on spotlighting its LCVs in the market, the company is backed by a new head honcho who is well-equipped and ready to take on the competition.
Torque&Power tried to dig up some more of his circumstances, and we came up with his unfiltered answers:
1. Your favorite Filipino dish
I’m unfamiliar with Filipino cuisine but look forward to trying an authentic “Pampanga Sisig.”
2. Your sport or hobby
I played many sports in my younger years—American football, rugby, tennis, baseball, soccer, ice hockey, Australian football, and cricket. These days, I mainly jog for health and wellness.
3. An item on your bucket list
I’d like to obtain a scuba diving license here in the Philippines—or perhaps even a small boat license.
4. Another career ambition you might have had
I’m completely satisfied with my career and the path I’ve taken so far.
