Toyota PH gives Tamaraw protectors a Tamaraw to use
For those unaware of the iconic Toyota Tamaraw’s local connection, the wild buffalo is the namesake of the vehicle.
Native to Mindoro and classified as critically endangered, conservation groups and programs are in charge of protecting these creatures, such as the Department of Environment and Natural Resources‘ (DENR) Tamaraw Conservation Program (TCP).
To aid conservation efforts, Toyota Motor Philippines (TMP) and Toyota Motor Philippines Foundation (TMPF) have donated one Toyota Tamaraw Utility Van (LWB) to help the 18 Bantay Tamaraw Rangers patrol and mobilize the TCP Office on the island of Mindoro.
Php 500,000 worth of equipment, mountaineering gear, and tools were also donated to the DENR-MIMAROPA regional officials and TCP Office representatives, with the turnover held at the DENR Central Office in Diliman, Quezon City last April 7, 2025.
The Bantay Tamaraw Rangers are composed of volunteers from indigenous groups and barangay residents, and they patrol the tamaraw’s known habitats in Mounts Iglit-Baco Natural Park, spanning across Occidental Mindoro and Oriental Mindoro.
“Now, it is your turn to be protected too – from the harsh mountain conditions and various dangers of trekking and camping for weeks in the wilds,” says Masando Hashimoto, Toyota Motor Philippines president.
The TMPF has also committed to providing a Php 3-million conservation fund to support key program initiatives such as Tamaraw habitat monitoring and research, support programs for the volunteers, bolstering the Tamaraw Research and Conservation Center, and various Communication, Education, and Public Awareness (CEPA) activities.
Photos from Toyota Motor Philippines
