GAC on track: Outlines strategic expansion, honors top dealers

GAC MOTOR Philippines recently brought together its leaders, dealer partners and stakeholders at the 2025 Dealer Conference to lay out its plans for the year ahead. The event, held under the direction of Astara Philippines, highlighted how far the brand has come in just two years — and where it’s headed next. With a clear focus on expanding its network and strengthening relationships, the company emphasized its commitment to offering reliable and world-class mobility to Filipino drivers.

In that short span under Astara’s management, GAC MOTOR has made big strides: dealership numbers have grown rapidly, and sales have followed suit. The conference served as both a celebration and a call to action, with dealer partners recognized for playing a crucial role in building the brand’s presence in the Philippine market.

Luis Torres, country manager of Astara Philippines, spoke about the broader vision that drives their work. “At Astara, we believe that mobility is about empowering businesses, enhancing customer experiences, and building a future where innovation and profitability go hand in hand. Our journey is one of transformation, and together, we are driving forward towards growth and sustainability,” he said.

As part of the program, GAC MOTOR acknowledged its top-performing dealers from 2024. These recognitions were divided into three categories: sales excellence, sales growth and service excellence. For Sales Excellence, standout dealers included Wheels Inc. in New Manila, AutoSpectrum Corp. in Alabang, 1Dynamix Automotive Inc. in Kawit for Luzon; Autocentral Inc. in Cebu for Visayas; and Davao Bonifacio Motors Inc., Global Cars in Butuan, and Otto Motto Mobility Inc. in CDO for Mindanao.

The Sales Growth Award went to dealers that saw significant improvements in 2024, including Autohub Group Inc. (BGC and Sumulong), FAS Motors Inc. (Matina), Peer Motortek Sales Corp. (Nueva Ecija), and Autokid Subic Trading Corp. (Mindanao Avenue and San Fernando).

On the service front, Wheels Inc. and AutoSpectrum Corp. were again recognized, along with Bermaz Auto Asia Inc. in Sta. Rosa for Luzon. Ponce Automobile Corporation in Bacolod represented the Visayas, while Davao Bonifacio Motors Inc. rounded out the list for Mindanao.

One of the conference highlights was the formal signing of new dealership partnerships. Luis Torres and Sam Chu, general manager for the Asia Region at GAC International, led the ceremony, joined by other GAC executives and brand ambassador Dingdong Dantes. The new dealer partners — FAS Motors Inc. (Matina), Topcars Autoworld (Tacloban), Bermaz Auto Asia Inc. (Batangas), AVB (Lipa, Batangas), Motorcentrum (Pangasinan), and Peek Motortek Sales Corp. (Nueva Ecija) — signaled the brand’s intent to deepen its footprint across the country.

Sam Chu praised the progress made so far. “It is truly inspiring to witness the rapid evolution of GAC Motor Philippines under Astara leadership. In just two years, the brand has not only grown in sales and network but has also earned global recognition solidifying its place as a key player in the automotive industry,” he said. “Let us continue to challenge the market, set new benchmarks, and redefine what is possible together.”

Looking ahead, GAC Motor has plans to launch new models packed with technology, performance and contemporary design. These vehicles will be officially unveiled at the 2025 Manila International Auto Show, which runs from 10 to 13 April, with more releases lined up later in the year. The goal is to cater to the needs of modern Filipino drivers who value both style and reliability.

In addition to its product roadmap, GAC Motor is investing in customer experience. This includes improving after-sales service and using Astara’s digital tools to enhance how dealers operate and interact with buyers. The approach focuses on better training, smarter customer engagement, and overall smoother mobility services.

Wrapping up the event, Dingdong Dantes, who has been the face of GAC Motor in the Philippines, reaffirmed his role as brand ambassador. Speaking to the audience, he said, “GAC Motor is redefining the driving experience with its premium quality and outstanding performance. I am proud to represent a brand that values excellence and continuously strives to bring world-class vehicles to Filipino consumers.”

With a growing network, fresh lineup of vehicles, and a strong support system behind it, GAC Motor Philippines looks set to keep building on its momentum well into 2025.