Manila: The Philippine government remains the biggest market for marine transport engine manufacturer Honda Marine and Filipino marine solutions provider Propmech Corp., the companies’ officials told reporters Wednesday.

According to Philippines News Agency, Honda Philippines, Inc. (HPI) and Propmech launched the Honda BF350, the Japanese brand’s flagship outboard engine, which is a 350 horsepower V8 engine-a first of its kind for Honda Marine. HPI president Sayaka Arai noted the significant potential in the Philippine market for the BF350, given the country’s island geography and growing demand for outboard motors.

Honda Marine has already sold more than 1,000 units of the BF350 since its launch in Japan, North America, Europe, and the Middle East last year. Propmech director Glenn Tong emphasized the engine’s suitability for the government’s needs, particularly for patrolling within Philippine waters. He highlighted the engine’s 20 percent more efficiency in distance, time, and operations, coupled with its lower noise levels.

Tong further explained that the engine’s features are ideal for the patrolling activities of the Philippine Navy and the Philippine Coast Guard. He also mentioned that Propmech has supplied over 1,500 boats to the government, showcasing a proven track record in building durable vessels.

Additionally, Propmech is actively seeking government contracts under the Horizon 3 of the Armed Forces of the Philippines Modernization Program, as well as marine transport projects of the Department of Transportation. Arai stated that HPI aims to initially sell 100 units of the BF350, while Tong noted that Propmech targets carrying 50 to 100 BF350 outboard engines for large vessels and more than that number for smaller vessels.