Report Hero of the Highway: Vietnam's Diep Xa Lo Helps Stranded Motorists

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Picture courtesy of VN Express

 

For nearly a decade, Tran Anh Diep, affectionately known as "Diep Xa Lo" or "Highway Diep," has become a beacon of hope for stranded motorists in Lao Cai City, Vietnam. Diep has built a reputation as the city’s selfless car rescue hero, responding to thousands of calls for help without ever charging a fee.

 

A tourist from Hanoi, Nguyen Quang Huy, recently experienced Diep's goodwill. On a holiday in Sa Pa, Huy’s car battery died after he accidentally left the headlights on overnight. Stranded at 5 a.m. with no available rescue services, Huy was advised to call Diep. Despite his skepticism, Huy called, and just 20 minutes later, Diep arrived and got the car running again. Diep declined any payment, simply empathising with Huy's predicament, a story that is all too familiar to many who have benefitted from his help.

 

Living in Coc Leu ward, 41-year-old Diep serves as the deputy general director of a pharmaceutical and cosmetics company while also managing a home business selling engine oil and dried buffalo meat. Despite his business commitments, locals believe his true contribution lies in his acts of kindness, not his job title. His journey began in 2014 after he faced a dead battery himself, which inspired him to help others in similar situations.

 

Diep’s family and friends initially disapproved of his unpaid rescue operations, which often take place at odd hours, believing it distracted him from his business. Nevertheless, Diep remained undeterred, investing time and money without expecting anything in return. His 2011 Toyota Corolla Altis has become his trusty companion, even though it often gets scratched or damaged during rescues in challenging terrains.

 

To overcome the practical challenges of roadside rescues, especially in complex locations, Diep developed custom 6-meter jumper cables, offering these to other drivers to promote a culture of self-help and mutual aid. As deputy head of the OTOFUN Lao Cai car club, he also distributes these cables free of charge, ensuring others can lend a hand in emergencies.

 

Throughout his countless rescues, Diep cherishes the smiles, gratitude, and friendships he earns along the way more than any financial reward. He’s helped wedding cars and funeral vehicles in distress and assisted tourists and locals alike, cementing his status as a local hero.

 

His spirit of giving extends beyond car troubles. Diep has led numerous charitable initiatives, including building schoolyards, donating educational materials to remote area schools, and providing essential supplies to hospitals during the Covid-19 pandemic. Known as "Google" for his broad knowledge and resourcefulness, Diep takes the time to educate drivers on safely resolving common vehicle problems, empowering them to act independently in the future.

 

Diep’s dedication to community service and his unwavering commitment to helping others have left an indelible mark on the community, making him an inspirational figure for many. His story exemplifies the profound impact of selfless service, showing that small acts of kindness can create a ripple effect of goodwill across a community.

 

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from VN Express 2025-06-12