AAP and FIVA Strengthen Partnership to Protect Philippines’ Automotive Heritage

AAP MEETS WITH FIVA AMBASSADOR FOR ASIA MASAKI SHIMIZU The Automobile Association Philippines (AAP), represented by Board of Trustees Atty. Robby Consunji and Executive Assistant Patricia Bonilla, held a breakfast meeting when FIVA (Federation Internationale des Vehicules Anciens) Ambassador for Asia Masaki Shimizu visited Manila recently. AAP is the national authority in the Philippines for FIVA, a NGOl partner of UNESCO that protects, preserves and promotes historic vehicles (over 30 years old) and their culture. Through the AAP, Filipino owners of historic, classic or vintage vehicles can obtain FIVA ID Cards which authenticate the vehicles. IN PHOTO (l. to r.) Patricia Bonilla, Alvin Uy, Rene Nunez, Robby Consunji, FIVA Ambassador for Asia Masaki Shimizu, Sophie de los Santos, Alex Isip, Andy Nocum, and Apa Ongpin.

On December 12, 2025, the Automobile Association Philippines (AAP), represented by Atty. Robby Consunji, met with Fédération Internationale des Véhicules Anciens (FIVA) Ambassador for South and East Asia Masaki Shimizu to discuss key initiatives supporting the restoration and preservation of vintage vehicles.

Consunji, AAP Trustee and Chairperson for Government Relations and Travel, also serves as a Titular Member of the International Historic Commission of the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA). Building on AAP’s official membership in FIVA in 2024, the meeting reinforced AAP’s commitment to strengthen local car culture and advance vehicle preservation efforts by aligning with international standards and leveraging FIVA’s global network and expertise. The partnership supports knowledge-sharing, technical guidance, and broader advocacy for heritage vehicle restoration, including education, community engagement, and responsible enjoyment of vehicles over 30 years old.

Central to the discussion was the ongoing restoration of the historic presidential parade vehicle—the Land Rover Series III Parade Vehicle, fondly known as the “White Carabao.” Participants outlined persistent challenges, particularly the time-consuming processes slowing progress, and underscored the broader value of preserving historic vehicles as tangible links to Philippine history and identity.

AAP and FIVA issued a call to action to preserve and restore vintage vehicles, especially those with historical and cultural significance. Restoration work should remain period-correct and avoid “resto-mod” alterations, while raising the bar on workmanship and investment. The endeavor also includes organizing vintage vehicle motor sport events, reviving the Carnet de Passage system, and establishing a Philippine Heritage Vehicle Museum. Ambassador Shimizu reiterated FIVA’s support for the historic vehicle movement, including heritage motor sport, in the Philippines.

AAP and FIVA pledged to deepen collaboration in promoting and safeguarding the Philippines’ automotive heritage, and to strengthen engagement with government agencies and the local automotive industry to help drive the successful restoration of vintage vehicles nationwide. In line with these initiatives, AAP will soon launch a vintage car membership program to further engage enthusiasts, collectors, and restorers.