Lexus to Launch in the Philippines in 2009

According to The Manila Standard, Lexus will begin sale in the Philippines starting in January 2009:

Alfred Ty, son of the business tycoon George Ty, told reporters the company is set on October to break ground for the only Lexus showroom in country within the Metrobank’s property in Fort Bonifacio in Taguig.

The Lexus showroom will rise on a 4,500-square meter property. It will house the brand’s internal offices, stockyard and service center.

Ty said the company was prepared to import the full line of Lexus models in the country, namely LS 460 full-size luxury sedan, GS 460 midsize luxury sports sedan, IS 350 compact premium sedan and LX 570 sports utility vehicle.

Prices of the models range from P4 million to P8 million each, or approximately the same cost as a high-end residential condominium in Makati or Fort Bonifacio.

Strangely, I found this article from the Manila Times claiming that the groundbreaking ceremony was held back in December 2007, so it’s a little unclear just where development stands. Regardless, both articles claim the dealership will open in January 2009.