Waze appoints new Country Manager for the Philippines

POSTED BY: Lionell Go Macahilig
2018-06-24 15:00:00 PHT

With Manila ranking first among the cities around the world with the worst traffic condition in 2017, Waze has a serious business here in the Philippines. Strengthening its leadership in the country, the Google-owned company behind the world's largest community-based mobility app announced the appointment of Sarah Rodriguez as the Country Manager for the Philippines.

Rodriguez was the Head of Digital Sales, Digital Media Division of ABS-CBN Corporation. She also played a role in Yahoo Philippines as its Digital Solutions Manager before her position at the country's largest media conglomerate.

"Sarah's 11 years of experience in marketing and brand development are already an asset as we continue to grow our business from the Manila office. The Philippines is an important market to Waze and we see a golden opportunity to further deepen our presence with strategic partnerships with the government and the private sector under her leadership,” said KK Kumar, Waze APAC Regional Manager.

Apart from leading the business development for Waze, Rodriguez will also handle the brokering of partnerships with both public and private entities as part of the company's Connected Citizens Program (CCP). This program empowers partners to harness real-time driver insights to decongest roads and make better decisions while on the road. Waze is already in partnership with the Metro Manila Development Authority (MMDA), providing data to create better routes, wider coverage of incidents, and support to promote safer driving.

“The opportunity to be part of an organization that promotes community engagement to solve daily issues on traffic management and driving experience is a privilege. I’m delighted to be part of Waze’s journey in the Philippines to bring technology that can make a meaningful impact in people’s lives,” said Rodriguez.

Rodriguez will also engage with the Waze community in the country to understand their needs while driving. She will also work closely with brands to help them reach new audiences through advertising on Waze.

Through its popular app, Waze is committed to bringing the most helpful features to drivers in the Philippines. By using real-time map data, the app allows users to see alternative routes and get to their destinations earlier. The app also provides information on traffic jams, accidents, and construction activities on the road.

Rodriguez is a graduate of the University of the Philippines with Bachelor of Science degree in Business Economics, and holds a Master's Degree in Marketing Communications from De La Salle University.