Tokyo (April 16, 2010) - Working with local Chilean organizations and through the Embassy of Chile in Japan, the Bridgestone Group donated more than ¥11 million to support Chilean relief efforts following the earthquake that occurred on Feb. 27, 2010.

Bridgestone Corporation donated ¥3 million through the Embassy of Chile in Japan while BSJ's subsidiary, Bridgestone Americas, Inc. (BSAM), donated US$50,000 (equivalent to ¥4.5 million) through Fundación Imagina. Fundación Imagina will use the funds to help build two new classrooms as part of its initiative to replace schools damaged during the earthquake.

Further, BSAM's subsidiary in Chile, Bridgestone Chile, S.A. (BSCL), provided aid equivalent to approximately US$40,000 (equivalent to ¥3.6 million) by donating bags and school supplies through the Boy Scouts of Chile. In addition, through the Boy Scouts of Chile, BSCL donated 40,000 children's toys collected from spectators at race events.

The Bridgestone Group expresses sincere condolences to the families who lost loved ones in this tragedy and wishes the nation of Chile a rapid recovery.