Motorshow mania

MANILA, Philippines - Nobody can truly explain the bond between man and machine. It is an intricately woven love affair that has probably led to more marital disputes than the wretched toilet seat fiasco. There are magazines dedicated to them, movies, TV shows, plays, calendars, books, songs, holiday packages, sporting events and of course car shows.

But it wasn’t always this way. After martial law was declared, we were left with as many vehicle choices as the first lady’s hairstyles. Only a handful of manufacturers stayed on, all of which could only offer a pitiful selection of models that were limited to 2.0 liters and under.

Things only started to pick up after democracy was restored in 1985, and freer trade policies were implemented. Slowly we started to see a wider range of models come in with different engine sizes. It was a very encouraging boost to the industry, but it wasn’t until the car shows started popping up did things really begin to take off.

Nineteen years ago, the TRADE SHOW group, headed by Sophie de los Santos, a certified, self confessed car nut, started the Trans Sport show and is now recognized as the country’s longest running car show. She admits that there were times when they weren’t sure if the show would go on, especially after the Asian financial crisis when it all seemed hopeless, but they persisted. And almost two decades later, they are gearing up for the 20-year anniversary next year.

The Trans Sport Show is car show organized by enthusiasts for enthusiasts. It runs from the 21st to the 25th of April at the Megatrade Halls 1-3 of Megamall and features the highly coveted Best in Show contemporary and Best in Show nostalgic.

But for manufacturer based shows, the Manila International Auto Show has been quenching the consumer’s thirst for new cars since April of 2005. The team, headed up by Alvin Uy, and Jason Ang and Philippine STAR’s very own Ulysses Ang, worked together with Joseph Ong to create an annual spectacle that continues to attract over 70,000 people. One of the highlights is the world famous stunt driver, Russ Swift, as he performs his inch-perfect driving maneuvers in front of a live screaming audience. The Manila International Auto Show runs from April 15 to 18.

And if you’re still not all “tired” out, the Chamber of Automotive Manufacturers of the Philippines (CAMPI) stage the industry show in August. All members of the chamber are present and it is held every other year. This showcases the industry and is definitely one not to be missed.

But just in case you do, don’t worry because in between, throughout the various open fields, gasoline stations, shopping center car parks and anywhere where two or three or more can gather, there’s always a car show going on somewhere. Because as the Filipino’s love affair with cars deepens, the shows have become the ultimate expression of man’s real best friend.