Hyundai Motor Philippines (HMPH) has partnered with the ASEAN National Organizing Council (NOC) to support the country’s hosting of the 2026 ASEAN Summit. As regards, the Korean car brand has moved to provide 50 Hyundai Santa Fe SUVs that will serve as official protocol vehicles during the event.
The agreement was formalized through a ceremonial signing held on July 10, marking Hyundai’s latest collaboration with the Philippine government in preparation for one of Southeast Asia’s most important diplomatic gatherings.
The 2026 ASEAN Summit and Related Summits will bring delegates from across the region and beyond to the Philippine International Convention Center (PICC) this November, where leaders are expected to discuss key regional priorities and strengthen cooperation among member states. The fleet of Santa Fe vehicles will be assigned to support operational personnel throughout the summit, helping provide safe, reliable, and comfortable transportation.
Hyundai Motor Group Senior Vice President for Global Policy Office Dong Jo Kim said the initiative reflects the company’s commitment to supporting ASEAN’s goals of connectivity, sustainability, and innovation through smarter mobility solutions. He added that the vehicle support is intended to contribute to a successful summit for both the Philippines and the ASEAN community.
The signing ceremony was attended by officials from Hyundai Motor Group, Hyundai Motor Philippines, the ASEAN National Organizing Council, and the Embassy of the Republic of Korea. Among those present were HMPH President Jiho Son, HMPH Managing Director Cecil Capacete, ASEAN NOC Director-General Undersecretary Ma. Hellen Dela Vega, ASEAN NOC Head of Operations MGen. Potenciano Camba (Ret.), and Korean Ambassador Lee Sang-Hwa.
Jiho Son said MPH is honored by the trust placed in the company and takes pride in supporting the country’s hosting of the regional summit. He noted that the partnership aligns with Hyundai’s commitment to advancing meaningful mobility while contributing to a successful international event.
Under the arrangement, all 50 Hyundai Santa Fe units are being provided as in-kind support by Hyundai Motor Philippines. The vehicles will remain company-owned and will be returned after the country’s ASEAN hosting duties conclude, in line with the government’s commitment to the prudent use of public resources.
Autocar’s Take
Hyundai’s support for the 2026 ASEAN Summit goes beyond supplying a fleet of SUVs. It demonstrates how automotive brands can contribute to major national events without relying solely on sponsorship visibility. Providing 50 Hyundai Santa Fe units for official transport showcases the company’s confidence in its products while helping the Philippines deliver a smooth experience for international delegates. As more global gatherings place importance on reliability, safety, and sustainability, partnerships like this highlight the growing role of the automotive industry in public service.
