“Biggest PIMS yet” eyes unprecedented high
After two long years, the much-anticipated 9th Philippine International Motor Show (PIMS) is finally underway.
Since its first staging in 2007, the biennial motoring event, organized by the Chamber of Automotive Manufacturers of the Philippines, Inc. (CAMPI) has always aspired to bring together the top manufacturers and key stakeholders from both the government and private sectors here in the country. And through this gathering, they showcase to the local automotive market for several days the best that they can offer.
This year, with the theme: “Dare. Drive. The Future Redefined,” it captures the event’s commitment to pushing the limits of innovation in the automotive industry.
“We dare to introduce groundbreaking technologies that expand the horizons for Filipinos, showcasing cutting-edge advancements from 17 leading brands,” said CAMPI president, Rommel Gutierrez.
According to him, for 2024, they aim to drive the automobile community forward by fostering collaboration and progress among industry leaders, enthusiasts, and stakeholders.
“In doing so, we redefine mobility solutions, offering transformative ideas that meet today’s economic demands while ensuring inclusivity, sustainability, and smarter ways to connect with the future of mobility,” he added.
First day high
Since time immemorial, the first day of the motor show is the most-awaited as it is when the pizzazz and the festive atmosphere of the opening ceremony, colorful displays and various vehicle launches are usually being held. And as always, organizers have been holding it at the sprawling grounds of the World Trade Center in Pasay City.
What will we expect this time?
Here, on opening day, Department of Transportation Secretary, Jaime Bautista, has been invited as Guest of Honor.
The opening program in the morning consists of various keynote speeches, symbolic ceremonies, tour exhibits and audio visual presentations.
Come afternoon the various vehicle launches and presentations will set stage. This will be in particular order with each brand given, at least 20 minutes each, to present. It will start with Kia, then Chery, Honda and Ford. Next, Mazda, Jetour, MG, BMW and Changan will soon follow suit. After mid-afternoon, Suzuki, Daewoo, Isuzu and Foton will flaunt their newest vehicles. Finally, at the latter part of the day, the shows will be culminated by Hyundai, Nissan, Mitsubishi and lastly, Toyota.
Aside from the vehicle launches, there will also be various activities, like test drives, car club meets, virtual games and many others, that will be simultaneously happening throughout the day, thus, making it one fun-filled jam-packed affair.
How is this different from PIMS of the past?
When asked how different the show is compared to other PIMS events that have gone before, Gutierrez then replied: “PIMS 2024 has evolved significantly from previous years, with the most extensive participation to date—17 brands showcasing their latest innovations.”
“This year’s show emphasizes collaboration and the future of mobility like never before, with a stronger focus on sustainability and next-generation technologies,” he continued.
For him, PIMS 2024 highlights the Filipino market’s readiness for cutting-edge, eco-friendly vehicles and offers a platform for deeper engagement with stakeholders in the mobility space. The wide range of offerings, particularly in electric and hybrid vehicles, smart car technologies, and sustainable practices, marks a substantial leap forward from prior exhibitions.
CAMPI has deemed this year’s PIMS “the biggest yet” and is confident that it will surpass the record number of 90,000 attendees it previously set back in 2014 during the show’s fifth installment. Do you think they will be able to again break records this time? Let’s see.
