Suzuki Philippines, Inc. has taken another step in supporting workforce development with the inauguration of a new Business Operations Simulation Facility at Don Bosco College Canlubang. The facility, which was formally inaugurated on April 16, 2026 in Calamba City, Laguna, aims to give students more practical exposure to real-world automotive dealership operations.
The facility is designed to bridge the gap between classroom instruction and dealership operations based on real-world scenarios. As such, it provides students with hands-on exposure to the automotive business environment, aligning technical education with industry demands, especially in today’s highly competitive market.
Known for its Salesian educational framework and strong Technical Vocational Education and Training (TVET) programs, Don Bosco College has long focused on equipping students with applied skills and competencies. The addition of the simulation facility enhances this approach by introducing a controlled and realistic training environment.
Suzuki Philippines President Koichiro Hirao formally turned over the authorization to operate the facility to Fr. Jeffrey Mangubat, SDB, President and Rector of Don Bosco College. The symbolic handover highlighted the shared objective of preparing students for careers in the automotive sector.
The simulation facility replicates a full-service dealership setup, integrating core functions such as sales, after-sales service, and customer engagement, simulating the inner workings of a full 3S dealership. Students are exposed to the entire customer journey — from initial inquiries and service consultations to diagnostics, repair procedures, parts management, and post-service support.
Training is delivered through structured modules and scenario-based exercises, allowing students to apply theoretical knowledge in practical situations that mirror actual workplace conditions. This approach aims to develop not only technical proficiency but also problem-solving abilities, professionalism, and customer-centric thinking.
According to Suzuki, the Don Bosco Laguna dealership simulation and training facility reflects its goal to level up education and talent development to support future automotive professionals. By integrating academic learning with industry practices, Suzuki aims to contribute to a more skilled and job-ready workforce in the country.
Autocar’s Take
The establishment of a dealership simulation and training facility is a practical and timely move, particularly in a market where job readiness often lags behind academic preparation. By replicating real-world automotive operations, Suzuki Philippines bridges the gap between theory and application.
With the help of this facility, students are no longer limited to just technical repair skills, they’re also now exposed to customer interaction and business processes. This gives them a glimpse of how automotive dealerships actually operate in the real world. Initiatives like this could raise the standard of entry-level talent in the automotive sector and improve service quality across the industry.
