Michael Goho: A young man inspires

Michael Goho, shown here attending a Hyundai function, says Gateway Group strives tot make car ownership attainable and accessible. —CONTRIBUTED PHOTOS

We have again completed another revolution around the sun. And as we turn a new leaf, let us, this time, highlight humanity and his basic desire to learn, grow and constantly level up.

Since time immemorial, mankind has, year in and year out, yearned to improve. For countless millennia, man has only lived for an average of 70 to 80 years. Yet, during those years, no matter how it seems so fleeting, he has constantly aspired to find purpose and meaning, striving to leave a mark on this world.

For this piece, we get to feature a young executive in the motoring realm. This somehow aspires to highlight man’s journey in life, his highs, inevitable lows, along with his learnings, hoping this example can further inspire the young.

Meet Michael Goho. This 36-year-old executive vice president of Gateway Motors Group, a local multi-brand dealership network, has been in the automotive industry for about 15 years now. He is barely in his late 30s yet he already exemplifies both idealism and wisdom, along with a reserved dynamism and quiet confidence.

“The opportunity presented itself at a time when the business was preparing to grow and move to the next level,” the management graduate of University of Asia and the Pacific (UA&P) shared when asked how he found himself at one of the wheels of the family-owned firm.

“There was a clear need for more people to help focus on areas with strong potential, and to help unlock further growth in a meaningful way,” he added.

The automotive industry, Goho explained, continues to evolve, and their company strives to make car ownership more attainable and accessible.

“Beyond vehicles, the goal is to create opportunities—for both employees and customers—that enhance daily life and bring added convenience and mobility,” he continued.

Michael Goho enjoys a banter with Suzuki’s General Manager for Automobile Division Norihide Takei.

Deeper understanding of the industry

For 15 years, Michael helped his family grow the business. Their multi-brand dealership network, now spanning about 22 years, has expanded from Luzon, Visayas all the way to Mindanao. The dealership network serves well-known brands that include: Fuso, GAC, Geely, Honda, Hyundai, Jetour, Kia, MG, Mitsubishi, Nissan, Suzuki and many others.

“Over time, I’ve come to realize that the real differentiating factor remains the people working behind the scenes who consistently show up and take action,” he further disclosed.

Furthermore, not everything has been sunshine and rainbows in the business, Michael admitted.

“I’ve also learned from past mistakes, which allowed me to recalibrate and grow.”

For him, each experience offers lessons, and those lessons help shape better judgment, resilience, and flexibility—especially when navigating setbacks and changing circumstances.

Now at 36, he says it is important to stay open-minded while clearly understanding one’s role.

“ It’s also necessary not to shy away from asserting oneself and addressing matters that need to be confronted. These lessons help bring clarity and direction over time.”

These lessons, according to him, help prevent the repetition of past mistakes and allow for greater efficiency, balance, and maturity across different aspects of life and work.

For an electrific future

Looking forward into the future, Michael says that electrified vehicles are inevitable.

“It’s exciting to see more options becoming available as the market shifts.”

Although he still doesn’t own an EV yet, he attests that the Kia Carnival plugin hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) is a personal favorite, “ for its smooth and comfortable ride, especially on long trips.”

Also, he says that Gateway carries EVs under several brands in their portfolio, including: Mercedes Benz, Kia, Hyundai, MG, Geely, Changan and Jetour.

Moreover, as Goho looks forward to this New Year 2026, he strives to be the best version, not just for their company and his family, but for everyone else, especially the young.

He even addresses his younger self, mirroring today’s young generation, saying that one has to be more assertive in expressing authenticity, and more discerning about his purpose and role.

“Knowing oneself helps filter out noise in an increasingly chaotic world, and allows one to stay in his lane while maximizing his strengths,” he said.

“Focus on making a positive impact without trying too hard, and on leaving a meaningful impression on the people whose paths you cross.”