In a fast-paced world, truck drivers do more than just deliveries, they transport goods all over the country to keep businesses running and people moving. Working alongside them are the ever-reliable mechanics, who play a crucial role in safety by maintaining and repairing trucks to keep them road worthy, to help prevent accidents and ensure the safety of drivers and other road users.
To recognize the important roles of both truck drivers and mechanics, Shell Rimula kicked off the Luzon Leg of its Garahe ng Galing event on August 26, 2023, in Don Bosco Technical Institute of Makati, with most of the participants coming from Metro Manila, Bulacan, Rizal and Cavite.
The event served as a platform for mechanics and drivers to acquire new skills and improve their knowledge about actual challenging situations they might encounter on the road. They had the opportunity to apply their expertise by solving problems from the three focused topics: oil leak, engine problems, and tire wear. This ended with a brief explanation and a Q&A session with Don Bosco instructors.
After completing the three skills challenges, participants were directed to the NC-1 registration booth to apply for a free TESDA NC-1 (National Certification in Automotive Servicing) Certificate. They also had a chance to win freebies such as one gallon of Shell Rimula R4X, socket wrenches, or a gift certificate to a fast-food service chain.
Jackie Famorca, Vice President of Shell Lubricants in the Philippines, shared how the event gave their team insights into the challenges faced by truck drivers and mechanics and helped them identify ways to support them better.
“Sa bawat pagbiyahe at paggamit nila ng kanilang repair tools, nabibigyang-daan nila ang pagkakaroon ng mas ligtas, mas makulay, at mas konektadong Pilipinas. Kaagapay ng bawat truck driver at mekaniko ang Shell Lubricants upang tiyakin na mayroon silang sapat na resources para magawa nila ng maayos ang kanilang trabaho. Oras na para makita natin ang kanilang kahalagahan bilang mga propesyunal at pasalamatan rin ang lahat ng kanilang ginagawa para sa pag-unlad ng bansa,” said Famorca.
(With every driving journey and use of repair tools, they pave the way for a safer, more vibrant, and more connected Philippines. Shell Lubricants is committed to supporting them so they can do their jobs safely and efficiently. It’s high time we see their value and appreciate them for everything they do to keep our country moving forward.)
She added that these unsung heroes work long hours and often face rough working conditions, such as harsh weather and challenging terrains, and may even be away from home for weeks to deliver essential goods and services wherever and whenever needed.
Johnnie Santos, Technical Director of Don Bosco Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) Department, said that the work of truck drivers and mechanics is no small feat. He also mentioned Don Bosco’s longstanding partnership with Shell and how they aim to empower more of these professionals to become more globally competitive and help elevate their lives.
Jovany Alejandro, 53, a seasoned truck and heavy equipment mechanic with three decades of experience, expressed his gratitude for the event, saying: “Napalaking tulong talaga ng programang ito ng Shell lalo na sa marami sa amin na laging tutok sa trabaho at limitado ang oras na maka-attend ng bagong trainings at maka-apply sa mga certification. Kaya yung NC I magagamit talaga namin yun lalo na sa paghahanap ng magandang trabaho.”
(This program by Shell has been incredibly helpful especially for those of us with little to no time to attend new trainings and apply for certifications because of work. That’s why we can really make use of the NC I, especially in seeking better job opportunities.)
Junny Baller, a 40-year-old truck driver with 18 years of driving experience, knows all too well the demands of his job. He shared how he had to spend countless nights awake on the road, even with a backup driver. They need to be constantly mindful of their surroundings and be on the lookout not only for the dangers of the road but also for the condition of their trucks. A minor breakdown can sometimes set them back days, affecting everything.
When it comes to road safety, Joel Beriño, a 34-year-old truck driver with nearly a decade of experience, offers an important piece of advice on maintaining the right mindset while driving: “Hindi mo alam ang mga posibleng mangyari kapag nasa kalsada kaya, importante na tayo mismo bilang mga truck driver, pinapractice natin palagi yung defensive driving. Kasi kapag defensive driver ka, you can save lives, save time, and save money,” Beriño explained.
(You never know what might happen on the road, so, as truck drivers, we must consistently practice defensive driving. Being a defensive driver enables us to save lives, save time, and save money.)
Shell Rimula offers a range of mineral and synthetic based engine oils that use adaptive technology to provide outstanding wear and engine protection; from 20W-40, 15W-40, to 10W-40. Shell Rimula engine oils meet the latest API rating that is required in the market.
The Visayas and Mindanao legs of Shell Rimula’s Garahe ng Galing will be held in Cebu and Cagayan de Oro City, respectively, to reach more truck drivers and mechanics in the rural areas of the country and provide them with access to learning and upskilling opportunities.
For more information about the Shell Rimula products, visit shell.com.ph/motorists/oils-lubricants/rimula-truck-heavy-duty-engine-oil. To know more about Shell Rimula Garahe ng Galing event, stay tuned to Shell Philippines Facebook page for the latest updates.
