Issuu

Resetting Mobility: From Moving Cars to Moving People

The Mobility Generation

Are Modern Vehicles Ready for the Philippines?

Asus ROG Strix G

Asus ROG Strix SCAR 18

BenQ MA Series

Brother PR1060W

Garmin Approach Z10

Huawei nova 15 Max

Infinix GT 50 Pro

Logitech G RS50 Direct Drive

Wheelbase | RS Pedals

Poco Pad C1

Samsung T7 | T9

Synology PAS7700

Mitsubishi Destinator: The Connected Family SUV

PIMS 2026: More Than A Motorshow

BAIC: A Bold First Impression

HONDA: Reinvention Begins Here

ISUZU: Staying The Course

JETOUR: Electrification For The Everyday

NISSAN:

Cover Story

WHAT MOVES US

Words by Maribelle Alba

Not long ago, mobility was mostly a conversation about vehicles. Horsepower, fuel economy, and the latest models arriving in local showrooms dominated the discussion. Today, it’s about much more than what’s parked in the driveway.

Technology has transformed how we move. Cars have become computers on wheels, shaped as much by software as by engineering. Motorcycles are more connected than ever. Navigation apps shape our daily commutes, while electrification and connected services are redefining transportation. At the same time, congestion, rising transport costs, changing work patterns, and the realities of climate change continue to reshape how Filipinos travel every day.

Mobility is no longer just an automotive story. It has become a technology story, an infrastructure story, and ultimately, a people story.

To understand that future, we need to ask why our transport systems work the way they do, how a new generation is redefining mobility, and whether today’s technologies are truly ready for Philippine roads and conditions.

Here, we explore those questions from different perspectives. We examine the systems that move us, the people driving change, and the technologies shaping what comes next.

In the end, the future of mobility won’t be defined solely by what we drive. It will be defined by how we choose to move.

RESETTING MOBILITY FROM MOVING CARS TO MOVING PEOPLE

Words by Chris Noel Hidalgo

At 6:00 AM on a Monday morning, the roads within and leading to Metro Manila are already busy.

Major arteries such as Commonwealth Avenue and Aguinaldo Highway see students, workers, and other commuters cramming themselves into whatever space jeepneys and buses can spare them. Motorcycles aggressively weave in and out of lanes. Trains strain under passenger loads well beyond their intended capacity. Private cars taking the northern and southern expressways, both elevated and at-grade, find themselves stuck in the same crawl they paid a toll to avoid. Cyclists are bullied by other vehicles into giving way.

All around them, heavy equipment and construction workers continue to work on rail and road infrastructure that promises relief sometime in the future. Always sometime in the future.

The numbers provide a sense of scale to this misery. In 2017, the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) estimated that Metro Manila’s traffic costs

PHP3.5 billion daily. If nothing is done, the economic cost will balloon to PHP5.4 billion per day by 2035. That’s just in Metro Manila, and we’re less than a decade from that window.

This raises an uncomfortable question: if the Philippines has spent decades building roads, expanding expressways, and improving vehicles, why does mobility still feel broken?

The answer is a distinction that sounds simple and has proven difficult to act on: moving vehicles is not the same as moving people.

How We Became a Nation Built Around Cars

The Philippines did not become a carcentric country by accident. It became one by a long sequence of decisions, most of them made in the decades immediately following World War II.

Before the war, Manila had one of the first electric tramways in Asia. The Battle of Manila in 1945 destroyed much of the

rail network, and postwar reconstruction, shaped heavily by American urban planning models that were themselves being reshaped around the automobile, chose roads over rails.

What followed was a development model that organized cities around the car. Residential, commercial, and industrial zones spread outward, not along transit corridors but along roads. Distance grew, and with it the felt need for a private vehicle. Today, the National Economic and Development Authority’s Ambisyon Natin 2040—a survey of what Filipinos aspire to by that year—lists vehicle ownership among the top material goals for 77% of Filipino households. Note what this data actually says: these are aspirations, not current behaviors. What it reveals is that even Filipinos who cannot yet afford a car have internalized ownership as a marker of a comfortable life. The system created the desire that now sustains it. Looking at year-on-year sales immediately before and after the pandemic, that aspiration is already being realized, with more than 400,000 vehicles sold annually.

With the influx of vehicles, governments and private actors built additional roads. Yet the relief was often temporary. Transportation planners have a name for what happens when governments try to build their way out of congestion: induced demand. Add lanes, and vehicle use expands to fill the new capacity until everyone is back at snail speed.

The problem was never simply a shortage of roads. It was a shortage of alternatives.

Global Emergencies Exposed the Cracks

For most of those fifty years, the costs of car-centric development were felt as daily inconveniences rather than being recognized as systemic failure. Then came crisis after crisis, making structural gaps impossible to ignore.

COVID-19 arrived in 2020 and parked the motorized options most Filipinos depended on. The jeepney, the backbone of the country’s transit network, stopped running. Buses were garaged. The streets emptied. Into that space came bicycles. The National Economic Development Authority estimates that in 2021, 2.1 million bicycles were imported into the country, and cyclists reclaimed road space that was never designed for them.

Local governments, acting with the urgency that business-as-usual reforms rarely generate, installed protected bike lanes along major thoroughfares. For a brief period, cities moved differently.

It didn’t last. As restrictions eased, private vehicles returned faster than the bike lanes could hold their ground. Many of the pandemic-era lanes were quietly removed or absorbed back into traffic. The window closed.

Then came the global fuel price shocks stemming from this year’s crises in the

Middle East. The Philippines, with more than 14.7 million registered internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles compared with fewer than 61,000 electric vehicles, absorbed the shock with almost no cushion. For commuters with no viable alternative to a gasolinepowered vehicle, there was no option to pivot. They paid, or they stopped moving.

Then there’s the climate emergency. Typhoons, floods, and extreme heat routinely disrupt daily travel. Roads become impassable, commuters are stranded, and cyclists and other active mobility users face increasing exposure to dangerous heat.

The lesson from each crisis has been identical. A transportation system built around a single mode, a single fuel, a single vehicle type, and a single set of assumptions is not a transportation system. It is a vulnerability.

What a Better Mobility System Looks Like

The model that countries and cities have successfully moved toward is called multimodal mobility. The underlying idea is straightforward. A commuter’s journey rarely involves just one mode of transport. It may include a walk, a feeder service, a main transit line, and a final-mile option. The quality of that journey depends not on any single link in the chain but on how well those links connect.

This is where the Philippine system consistently breaks down: not within any one mode in isolation, but at the seams between them.

The solutions that work are not theoretical, and the best examples are not too far removed from the Philippine experience. Bogotá—a city with urban density, income distribution,

and governance constraints closer to Manila’s reality—reduced private car use and improved air quality through a combination of bus rapid transit, protected cycling infrastructure, and weekly car-free streets stretching more than 100 kilometers. It did not require the kind of centralized authority that allowed Seoul to remove an elevated highway and restore a river beneath it. It required consistent policy and the political will to sustain it.

Closer to home, Iloilo, Pasig, Quezon City, Baguio, and Makati have introduced initiatives that encourage walking and cycling through car-free streets, expanded bike infrastructure, and pedestrian-friendly public spaces. Quezon City has even pioneered a free public bus system supported by a growing fleet of ICE and electric buses.

None of these initiatives solves congestion on its own. Together, however, they point toward a future in which mobility is built around giving people more transport choices rather than simply building more roads.

None of this happens quickly. The cities that have successfully reorganized how they move have done so through policy commitments that outlast individual administrations. That is perhaps the hardest obstacle to overcome: election cycles.

Technology is reshaping mobility too, though not always in the ways advocates envision. Navigation apps and adaptive traffic systems can make individual trips more efficient without reducing the number of cars on the road. Cashless payments have improved convenience across trains, buses, and jeepneys, although integration and reliability still vary between systems. EV adoption continues to grow but remains constrained by charging infrastructure outside major urban centers. The

technology is arriving. The infrastructure to support it equitably still isn’t in place.

A truly multimodal transport system also makes walking, cycling, and other forms of micromobility practical, everyday choices rather than last resorts. Safe infrastructure, shaded walkways, secure parking, and end-of-trip facilities encourage more people to choose these alternatives, reducing dependence on private cars while making the transport network more resilient.

The proof? The demand is already there. A 2021 Social Weather Stations (SWS) survey found that 87% of Filipinos want the government to prioritize commuters and cyclists.

What’s Next?

There is a version of this story that ends with familiar policy recommendations: build better public transport, invest in active and micromobility infrastructure, rationalize routes, deploy integrated fare systems, and electrify the fleet. All of that is necessary. None of it will happen at the required scale without addressing the harder issue beneath the surface.

The car was never just a vehicle. In the Philippines, it became a symbol of having made it, of no longer being constrained by a public transport system that has failed generations of commuters. Changing mobility therefore means changing that story. It begins by acknowledging that the narrative we have embraced for decades—that more roads and more cars automatically mean more freedom—has cost us far more than we have been willing to admit.

Real progress will not come from moving more vehicles. It will come from moving more people, more efficiently, more sustainably, and with more choices than they have today.

THE MOBILITY GENERATION

Words by Aljhelyn Piador

Few things evoke a stronger love-hate relationship among young Filipinos than transportation.

Before many of them even leave home, they’ve already checked traffic on Google Maps, booked a ride, topped up an RFID account, or compared fuel prices, all from the same device in their pocket. For a generation that lives through screens, mobility often begins with a tap long before they get behind the wheel or step onto a train.

That digital-first relationship is reflected across social media. Open any platform, and you’ll find countless videos romanticizing life on the road. They celebrate late-night drives through city

lights, spontaneous road trips with friends, proud posts celebrating the purchase of a first vehicle, and motorcycle creators documenting rides across provinces. Others create playlists and songs inspired by the freedom of being behind the wheel.

Then scroll just a little further, and the mood changes. The same feeds are filled with complaints about EDSA traffic, overcrowded MRT stations, rising fuel prices, expensive parking fees, and hours lost in daily commutes.

Today’s youth are looking at transportation through a completely different filter. Rather than simply buying vehicles, they are rethinking what mobility means in the context of living in the Philippines.

MOBILITY GENERATION

Redefining What It Means to Drive

For decades, buying a vehicle was often shaped by family loyalty to a brand, recommendations from relatives, or the status that came with owning a particular model. But Gen Z buyers often arrive at dealerships having already watched dozens of YouTube reviews, scrolled through owner groups on Facebook, read Reddit threads, compared fuel economy figures, and crunched financing costs down to the last peso. They arrive informed, sometimes knowing more about the vehicle’s spec sheet than the salesperson.

More than anything, practicality drives their decisions. Monthly payments, fuel costs, maintenance expenses, insurance, and the availability of spare parts often

carry more weight than brand popularity or trendy marketing.

A young office worker might spend weeks comparing SUVs on YouTube, only to realize, after factoring in parking fees, monthly fuel costs, insurance, and maintenance, that a scooter makes far more financial sense. The dream doesn’t necessarily disappear. It simply gives way to the realities of everyday life.

That shift is easy to spot on Philippine roads. Compact crossovers, practical sedans, fuel-efficient hatchbacks, and affordable motorcycles have become the vehicles of choice for many young Filipinos. With the cost of living climbing and budgets stretched more than ever, owning a vehicle is no longer just about making a statement but making the numbers work for you.

Cover Story

Mobility on Two Wheels

Everyone talks about cars, but one of the biggest transportation stories among young Filipinos is unfolding on two wheels.

The numbers tell the story. Historical data from the Land Transportation Office (LTO) and the National Statistical Coordination Board (NSCB) show that motorcycles and tricycles overtook utility vehicles and private cars as early as 2005. Since then, the gap has only widened. By 2022, the LTO recorded more than 6.9 million registered motorcycles nationwide, completely dwarfing the country’s fleet of private cars.

For many students, young professionals, delivery riders, and first-time workers, motorcycles and scooters have become the most accessible path to personal mobility. They’re cheaper to buy, easier to maintain, highly fuel-efficient, and often the only way to cut through congested urban traffic. In a country where commuting can consume hours of your day, that combination is impossible to ignore.

On the other hand, motorcycles also expose riders to greater safety risks, harsh weather conditions, and roads that are rarely designed with two-wheel mobility in mind. For many, choosing a motorcycle is

as much a harsh practical necessity as it is a personal preference.

For this tech-first generation, however, the two-wheel experience is heavily digitized. It’s no longer just about the bike but the electronic ecosystem built around it. Young riders are investing heavily in action cameras to document their daily commutes, helmet communicators for seamless navigation and music, smart riding gear, and connected scooters that sync directly to their smartphones via dedicated apps.

Despite the risks, the appeal goes beyond pure utility. Motorcycles have developed a thriving subculture of their own. Social media is filled with riding communities, weekend group rides, travel vlogs, and content creators documenting adventures across the country. Mobility is no longer defined by traditional car ownership alone. Instead, the goal is to move from point A to point B more efficiently, conveniently, and affordably.

Cars as Connected Devices

Affordability may influence the initial purchase decision, but technology increasingly determines the final one. For many Gen Z consumers, a car is no longer just a means of transportation. It’s another connected device in their digital ecosystem.

Not long ago, features like wireless Apple CarPlay or a fully digital instrument cluster were almost exclusively found in premium vehicles. Today, many younger buyers treat them less as luxury extras and more as baseline expectations. As a result, many young buyers evaluate cars much like they evaluate smartphones, looking beyond mechanical performance to the overall user experience.

They want deeper digital integration: over-the-air (OTA) updates that improve the vehicle overnight, digital keys stored on their smartphones or smartwatches, subscription-based features that can be unlocked when needed, and responsive AI assistants with natural voice controls. If a vehicle’s software feels slow or outdated, many Gen Z buyers are willing to overlook impressive horsepower and move on to another option.

The question is no longer just, “How does it drive?” It’s also, “How well does it fit into my digital life?”

That shift in priorities has become so recognizable that it’s now a recurring joke in online car content. Videos titled “Things Gen Z Car Buyers Like” often poke fun at younger buyers for obsessing over ambient lighting, giant touchscreens, wireless connectivity, and software features before asking about engine specifications. While exaggerated for laughs, the trend reflects a real change in consumer expectations.

The Reality of Electrification

Given Gen Z’s reputation for being techsavvy and environmentally conscious, it would be easy to assume that fully electric vehicles are an obvious pick. While many young Filipinos support sustainable transportation and recognize the climate benefits of EVs, good intentions quickly collide with the reality of a tight budget. High upfront costs, limited public charging infrastructure outside major

hubs, and concerns about long-term battery ownership create massive barriers.

This is why hybrids have become an attractive alternative. They offer lower fuel costs and reduced emissions without relying on charging stations. More importantly, they fit Gen Z’s practical mindset: embracing greener technology without taking on the costs and uncertainties of going fully electric.

It reflects a generation that’s willing to make more sustainable choices but only when those choices also make sense for everyday life.

The Alternative Mobility Ecosystem

Yet buying a vehicle isn’t the only way this generation is redefining mobility.

Ironically, while conversations about youth mobility often center on cars and motorcycles, many young Filipinos are choosing not to own a private vehicle at all. For them, mobility is less about what’s parked in the garage and more about what’s on their phone.

Google Maps and Waze provide realtime traffic updates before they leave home. Shared locations, dropped pins, and live ETAs have made meeting up and navigating the city easier than

Mobility Over Status

The generation behind mobility’s next big shift is not defined by horsepower figures or brand heritage alone. Some will choose compact crossovers. Others will buy motorcycles, scooters, or e-bikes. Some will embrace hybrids, while others may decide that public transportation or remote work makes more financial sense.

What unites them is not the specific type of vehicle they choose, but the realities shaping those choices.

For previous generations, transportation was often tied to aspiration. Owning

ever. In many ways, these digital tools have fundamentally changed how Gen Z moves, making every trip more connected, predictable, and flexible.

That same mindset extends to how they get around. Ride-hailing services, motorcycle taxis, the MRT and LRT, and the EDSA Bus Carousel have become part of a single mobility ecosystem that users can switch between depending on cost, convenience, and traffic conditions.

Then there is the structural shift of remote work. Many Gen Z professionals no longer have a daily commute, making traditional vehicle ownership an unnecessary financial burden.

a car symbolized success, stability, and upward mobility. For many young Filipinos today, mobility has become less about status and more about survival.

That shift says as much about the state of the country’s transportation system as it does about the youth navigating it.

Previous generations dreamed of owning the right car. This generation is simply trying to move through the city smarter, faster, and more affordably. In that sense, the future of Philippine mobility won’t be defined by horsepower or price tags, but by how well technology helps people reclaim the time, freedom, and opportunities that traffic has long taken away.

Words by Phia Manuell Layoso

AA sudden afternoon downpour transforms busy streets into a maze of puddles, slow-moving traffic, and fading lane markings hidden beneath murky floodwater. As visibility deteriorates, a warning appears on the dashboard. The vehicle’s driver assistance systems are struggling to interpret the road ahead.

For many Filipino motorists, it’s a familiar scene. And it raises an important question: as electric vehicles (EVs), hybrids, connected cars, and increasingly sophisticated motorcycles become more common on Philippine roads, are today’s technologies truly ready for the realities of local driving?

Spec sheets can highlight larger batteries, smarter software, and longer feature lists. But the real test begins once these vehicles leave the showroom and face the flooded streets, faded road markings, tropical heat, and congested traffic that define everyday driving in the Philippines.

So while the future of mobility may already be here, one question remains: Are modern vehicles truly ready for the Philippines?

The Rise of the Connected Vehicle

Today’s vehicles are software-driven machines that combine mechanical engineering with sensors, cameras, high-speed processors, and constant connectivity.

A decade ago, buyers primarily compared horsepower, fuel economy, and transmission types. Today, software has become just as important. Touchscreen responsiveness, smartphone integration, connected services, remote vehicle monitoring, and over-the-air (OTA) updates now rank alongside traditional performance figures when buyers compare new vehicles.

Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) are among the most significant developments in modern mobility. Features such as adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, lanekeeping assist, blind spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and traffic jam assist are designed to make driving safer while reducing driver workload.

Motorcycles are evolving as well. TFT digital displays, smartphone connectivity, turn-by-turn navigation, selectable ride modes, traction control, and anti-lock braking systems (ABS) are increasingly available even on commuter-oriented models.

These technologies promise safer, more convenient, and more connected journeys. But technology developed for global markets doesn’t always perform the same way once it encounters Philippine roads, weather, and traffic conditions.

The question isn’t whether these systems work. It’s how well they perform under the conditions Filipino motorists face every day.

Designed for Global Roads, Tested in the Philippines

Most vehicles are developed for global markets, where road conditions are generally more predictable and infrastructure is better maintained. Philippine roads present a very different set of challenges.

Potholes, uneven pavement, ongoing roadworks, and unpaved provincial roads place greater demands on suspension systems, tires, and underbody components. Models designed with low ground clearance for improved aerodynamics and efficiency may encounter practical limitations, helping explain why SUVs and crossovers continue to dominate the local market despite the growing number of electric sedans and hatchbacks.

Road conditions also influence how well driver assistance technologies perform. Adaptive cruise control delivers its greatest benefits on expressways such as NLEX, SLEX, SCTEX, and TPLEX, where traffic flows consistently and lane markings remain clearly visible. In Metro Manila’s stopand-go traffic, however, drivers may rarely have the opportunity to use the system to its full potential.

Lane-keeping assist provides another example. Because it relies on cameras detecting visible lane markings, faded paint, road construction, or floodwater covering lane lines can reduce its effectiveness or cause it to disengage temporarily. The system isn’t malfunctioning. It’s responding to conditions that make accurate lane detection difficult.

Some technologies prove especially valuable in Philippine driving conditions. Blind spot monitoring helps drivers detect motorcycles filtering through traffic, while rear cross-traffic alert and 360-degree cameras improve visibility when reversing out of crowded parking areas or navigating narrow streets. In many everyday situations, these features deliver more practical value than headline-grabbing performance figures.

Motorcyclists have also benefited from advances in safety technology. ABS, once reserved for premium models, is now available on many commuter motorcycles, while traction control on higher-end models improves stability on wet or slippery roads.

These technologies can significantly improve safety and convenience. Their effectiveness, however, depends not only on the sophistication of the system itself but also on the environment in which it operates. In the Philippines, road conditions remain as important as the technology designed to navigate them.

Heat, Floods, and Tropical Reality

If there’s one environment that truly tests today’s vehicles in the Philippines, it’s the country’s tropical climate.

Every year, monsoon rains and typhoons leave roads submerged for hours or even days, turning routine commutes into unpredictable journeys.

For conventional gasoline vehicles, deep floodwater raises the risk of engine damage if water enters the intake system. Because EVs don’t use an internal combustion engine, they aren’t susceptible to hydrolock. That doesn’t make them immune to flood-related problems. Although their high-voltage battery packs are sealed and designed to withstand wet conditions, manufacturers generally recommend that flood-exposed vehicles undergo inspection to ensure electrical systems and sensors have not been compromised.

Floodwater poses a challenge for every type of modern vehicle. Whether powered by gasoline, hybrid systems, or electricity, today’s cars depend heavily on cameras, radar modules, electronic control units, and sensors that can be costly to repair if damaged.

Heat presents a different challenge.

The Philippines’ combination of high temperatures, humidity, and widespread outdoor parking places greater stress on batteries, electronics, and interior materials. Modern EVs use sophisticated battery management and thermal control systems to regulate battery temperatures during driving and charging, helping preserve both performance and longterm durability.

Even so, prolonged exposure to extreme heat can gradually accelerate wear. Battery technology continues to improve rapidly, but long-term performance under Philippine conditions remains one

of the biggest unanswered questions surrounding electrification.

The EV Infrastructure Question

No discussion of current automotive technologies is complete without addressing one of the biggest questions surrounding electric mobility: charging infrastructure.

The situation has improved considerably in recent years. Charging stations are becoming more common in Metro Manila and other major urban centers, with shopping malls, office developments, dealerships, hotels, and even some fuel stations now offering public charging facilities. For many owners who primarily drive within the city, EV ownership has become increasingly practical. Outside these urban hubs, however, the picture changes. Long-distance travel

still requires more planning than it does with a conventional gasoline or hybrid vehicle, as charging stations remain unevenly distributed across the country.

Home charging remains one of the biggest advantages of EV ownership. But for condominium residents and households without dedicated parking, convenient charging remains a significant barrier.

Infrastructure also extends beyond charging stations. A reliable EV ecosystem depends on trained technicians, readily available replacement parts, and dealerships equipped to service high-voltage battery systems. While manufacturers continue to invest in these areas, support still varies from one brand to another.

For many buyers, this is where hybrids retain a clear advantage. They offer

improved fuel efficiency and lower emissions without requiring drivers to depend entirely on public charging infrastructure, making them a practical stepping stone toward full electrification.

The ecosystem is steadily improving, but the pace of EV adoption will ultimately depend on how quickly the supporting infrastructure keeps up.

The Hidden Cost of High-Tech Ownership

Today’s cars are safer, smarter, and more connected than ever before. But that sophistication also changes what it means to own and maintain one.

Ownership is evolving alongside the technology. Vehicles may receive software updates after purchase that

refine driver assistance systems, improve performance, fix bugs, and sometimes introduce entirely new features. Buying one today means buying into the software ecosystem that supports it.

At the same time, repairs have become more complex. Many advanced safety systems rely on cameras, radar sensors, ultrasonic sensors, and electronic control units working together in real time. Even relatively minor damage to a bumper, windshield, or side mirror may require specialized diagnostics and ADAS recalibration before these systems can operate as intended.

This growing complexity also places greater demands on dealerships and service centers, which must invest in high-voltage battery servicing, diagnostic equipment, and technicians trained to support software-defined vehicles. The level of expertise and after-sales support can still vary from one brand to another.

Parts availability is another important consideration. While some manufacturers maintain strong local inventories, others may require longer waiting times for specialized electronic components. Insurance is also beginning to reflect this new reality, as repairing and recalibrating advanced electronic systems can increase repair costs even after relatively minor collisions.

For today’s buyers, choosing a new car— which increasingly could be an EV or hybrid—involves more than comparing specifications and features. The strength of a brand’s service network, technical

expertise, software support, and parts availability has become just as important as what’s listed on the spec sheet.

The Road Ahead

Today’s vehicles are cleaner, safer, more connected, and more software-driven. But technology alone doesn’t determine whether they’re ready for Philippine roads.

Flood-prone streets, tropical heat, uneven road surfaces, inconsistent infrastructure, and the realities of long-term ownership continue to challenge even the most advanced models, even as charging networks, dealer capabilities, and local adaptation steadily improve.

The next generation of vehicles will undoubtedly become smarter, more capable, and better connected. But their success will depend not only on advances in batteries, software, or driver assistance systems. It will also depend on how well those technologies adapt to the environments where Filipinos actually drive every day.

The next time a sudden downpour turns city streets into rivers, the real measure of automotive technology won’t be the size of its touchscreen or the length of its feature list. It will be how reliably those technologies continue to perform when conditions are far from ideal.

Because in the Philippines, the true measure of automotive innovation isn’t how a vehicle performs under ideal conditions. It’s how reliably it continues moving when the road ahead is anything but.

ASUS ROG Strix G

Gaming Laptop

Strix G16 - PHP159,995 ~ PHP319,995

Strix G18 – PHP244,995

THE 2026 ASUS ROG STRIX G who want high refresh rate gaming, powerful hardware, and room for future upgrades. Available in 16-inch (Strix G16) and 18-inch (Strix G18) models, the lineup features a 2.5K ROG Nebula Display with a 300Hz refresh rate, delivering smooth motion and responsive gameplay for fast-paced esports titles as well as visually demanding AAA games.

Powering the series are Intel Core Ultra processors, including configurations with the Intel Core Ultra 9 290HX Plus, paired with NVIDIA GeForce RTX 50 Series Laptop GPUs ranging from the RTX 5050 up to the RTX 5080. Depending on the model, configurations include up to 32GB DDR5 memory and 1TB SSD storage, providing the performance needed for gaming, content creation, and multitasking.

To maintain consistent performance during extended gaming sessions, ASUS equips the Strix G with its ROG Intelligent Cooling system, which combines an end-to-end vapor chamber, Tri-Fan Technology, and Conductonaut Extreme liquid metal thermal compound. The cooling system is designed to reduce internal temperatures while allowing the processor and graphics card to sustain higher performance under load.

The chassis is designed with future upgrades in mind. A patented tool-less design provides convenient access to the RAM, SSD, and cooling fans, while ASUS’ Q-Latch mechanism simplifies SSD installation. Completing the gaming-focused design are a full-surround Aura RGB light bar and support for high-speed connectivity, making the 2026 ROG Strix G series suitable for both competitive gaming and everyday productivity.

ASUS ROG Strix SCAR 18

PHP439,995

is the flagship gaming laptop in the latest ROG lineup, combining top-tier components with one of the most advanced displays available on a notebook. It features what ASUS describes as the world’s first 18-inch 4K 240Hz Mini LED laptop panel, with more than 2,000 local dimming zones, up to 1,600 nits peak brightness, 100% DCI-P3 color coverage, and ROG Nebula ELMB technology for improved motion clarity. AGLR technology further reduces reflections while enhancing contrast for clearer

The laptop is powered by an Intel Core Ultra 9 290HX Plus processor and an NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5090 Laptop GPU, complemented by 64GB DDR5 memory and a 2TB SSD in the Philippine configuration. Support for NVIDIA DLSS 4, Multi-Frame Generation, and GPU-accelerated technologies enables the system to handle demanding games and graphics-intensive workloads.

ASUS also redesigned the cooling system with a 20% thicker vapor chamber, Liquid Crystal Polymer fans that increase airflow by up to 91%, Conductonaut liquid metal, and a dedicated graphite-and-copper heatsink for the SSD. The chassis uses dedicated intake vents on the sides and bottom while directing exhaust toward the rear hinge to help sustain performance during prolonged

Like the Strix G, the SCAR 18 features a tool-less chassis for easy access to the RAM and SSD, including ASUS’ Q-Latch mechanism for storage upgrades. Exclusive to the SCAR is the AniMe Vision LED display integrated into the lid, allowing users to display custom animations alongside the laptop’s full-surround

BenQ MA Series

THE BENQ MA SERIES is designed specifically for Mac users who want a larger workspace without sacrificing color accuracy or seamless integration with the Apple ecosystem. The lineup consists of the 27-inch MA270S and the 32-inch MA320UG, each tailored for creative professionals, designers, photographers, and video editors.

The MA270S features a 5K (5120 × 2880) display with 218 pixels per inch, making it suitable for detail-oriented work such as photo editing and graphic design. It supports 99% of the P3 color gamut and a 2000:1 contrast ratio for accurate color reproduction.

Meanwhile, the MA320UG is aimed at video creators with its 4K resolution and 120Hz refresh rate, offering smoother motion alongside 98% P3 color coverage and the same 2000:1 contrast ratio.

Both monitors use Nano Gloss panels to deliver vivid images while maintaining clarity.

Designed to complement Mac workflows, both models feature Thunderbolt 4 connectivity for video, data transfer, charging, and daisy-chaining through a single cable. Smart KVM functionality enables users to switch between multiple connected Mac devices using one keyboard and mouse, while BenQ’s Display Pilot 2 software adds features such as automatic color synchronization, workspace management, and brightness and volume controls directly from a Mac keyboard.

The MA Series also includes fully adjustable stands for improved ergonomics during long work sessions. By combining high-resolution displays, Mac-tuned color performance, and productivity-focused features, the MA270S and MA320UG are designed to expand the workspace of Mac users while maintaining a consistent visual experience across Apple devices.

Monitor

Brother

PR1060W

DESIGNED FOR small businesses and commercial embroidery operations, the Brother PR1060W combines high-speed production with intelligent automation to help streamline embroidery workflows.

The 10-needle embroidery machine features a built-in camera that captures fabric positioning and automatically aligns embroidery placement through the LCD touchscreen. This helps improve accuracy while reducing setup errors and material waste.

A library of 1,280 built-in embroidery designs and 50 built-in 3D fonts provides ready-to-use templates for apparel, uniforms, personalized gifts, and corporate branding projects. Users can also wirelessly create and transfer their own designs via the machine’s built-in Wireless LAN.

The PR1060W supports projects of varying sizes with a large 360 x 200mm embroidery area, allowing businesses to produce everything from small personalized items to larger embroidered designs without compromising stitch quality.

Productivity features include an automatic needle threader that minimizes downtime during thread changes, along with smart workflow

tools such as stitch optimization, customizable shortcut keys, and security lock modes that prevent unauthorized operation or accidental changes to machine settings.

The machine also integrates with the Brother My Stitch Monitor app for real-time production monitoring and the Artspira app, enabling users to create, edit, and manage embroidery designs from compatible mobile devices.

Built for continuous production, the Brother PR1060W is suited for businesses producing custom apparel, uniforms, promotional merchandise, monogrammed products, and personalized gifts.

PHP720,995

Embroidery Machine

Garmin Approach Z10

PHP18,290

THE GARMIN APPROACH Z10 is a compact laser rangefinder designed to help golfers measure distances with greater precision while integrating with compatible Garmin golf devices. Weighing less than seven ounces, it measures distances to the pin of up to 350 yards with 6x magnification and provides vibrational feedback when the target has been locked. Ranged distances are accurate within one yard.

A key feature of the Approach Z10 is Garmin’s Range Relay technology, which sends measured distances to compatible Garmin smartwatches, golf handhelds, and the Garmin Golf app. Once a target is ranged, paired devices display a laser range arc showing the pin position and distances to the front and back of the green, providing a clearer picture of the hole layout. Distances also remain dynamic, automatically updating as the player moves toward the target without requiring another laser measurement.

The rangefinder also includes PlaysLike Distance, which adjusts yardages based on elevation changes to help players choose the appropriate club. A Tournament Mode disables slope-adjusted information and activates an external indicator light to comply with competition rules. Additional features include a magnetic mount for golf carts, Find My Rangefinder support via the Garmin Golf app, and a battery life rated for up to 1 year under normal use.

When paired with a Garmin Golf membership, the Approach Z10 can also access Green Contour Data and high-resolution aerial course imagery on supported courses, giving golfers additional information for shot planning and green reading.

Golf Laser Rangefinder

HUAWEI nova 15 Max

THE HUAWEI NOVA 15 MAX combines a large display, long battery life, and a durable design in a smartphone aimed at users who spend long hours streaming, gaming, navigating, and multitasking throughout the day.

Its standout feature is an 8,500mAh battery, the largest battery capacity in a HUAWEI smartphone to date. Paired with 40W HUAWEI SuperCharge Turbo, the battery is rated for up to 48 hours of voice calls, 25 hours of navigation, or 23 hours of video playback on a single charge. The phone also supports reverse charging, allowing it to power compatible devices when needed.

At the front is a 6.84-inch OLED display with a 120Hz adaptive refresh rate and up to 4,000nits of peak brightness for improved outdoor visibility. Triple eye-comfort technologies help

reduce eye strain during extended viewing, while symmetrical dual speakers deliver up to 85dB of audio output for media playback and hands-free calls.

Photography is handled by a 50MP rear camera with an RYYB sensor and f/1.9 aperture designed to capture more light for brighter low-light photos, while an 8MP front camera is available for selfies and video calls.

The nova 15 Max also emphasizes durability with an IP65 rating for resistance to dust and water splashes, SGS 5-Star Drop Resistance certification, and a chassis engineered to withstand up to 100kg of pressure. Completing the package are AI Smart Control shortcuts that provide quick access to frequently used apps and AI assistants through a dedicated hardware button.

Infinix GT 50 Pro

DESIGNED FOR COMPETITIVE mobile gaming, the Infinix GT 50 Pro combines high-refresh-rate gameplay, advanced thermal management, and esports-focused features in a performance-oriented smartphone.

At its core is the HydroFlow Liquid Cooling Architecture, which pairs a large 3D vapor chamber with the optional GT MagCharge Cooler 2.0 to help dissipate heat during extended gaming sessions. The cooling system is designed to maintain stable temperatures and consistent performance during graphicsintensive games.

The GT 50 Pro also supports a 144FPS Gaming Ecosystem and is certified for high-frame-rate gameplay in Mobile Legends: Bang Bang (MLBB), delivering smoother visuals and

more responsive controls. The device underwent testing, including stress tests, tournament simulations, and professional player evaluations, to validate its performance in competitive gaming.

Beyond raw performance, the GT 50 Pro is designed to integrate with Infinix’s gaming ecosystem. It is compatible with the GT Watch 5 Pro, which provides real-time heart rate monitoring and gaming-related data while remaining connected to the smartphone.

Built for players seeking sustained performance under heavy workloads, the GT 50 Pro combines high-framerate gaming support with advanced cooling technologies to minimize thermal throttling during extended play.

Smartphone

Logitech G RS50 Direct Drive Wheelbase | RS Pedals

DESIGNED FOR SIM RACING ENTHUSIASTS, the Logitech G RS50 Direct Drive Wheelbase and RS Pedals bring professional-grade control and force feedback to home racing setups.

The RS50 is built around a directdrive motor that delivers up to 8Nm of peak torque, providing detailed steering feedback without the belts or gears found in traditional racing wheels. Logitech’s TRUEFORCE technology further enhances immersion by processing in-game physics, including road texture, engine vibration, tire grip, and surface changes, at up to 4,000 updates per second. The wheelbase also supports up to 2,700 degrees of steering rotation for a wider range of driving simulations.

Complementing the wheelbase is the RS Pedals set, featuring a 75kg load cell brake that measures pedal pressure rather than pedal travel to more closely replicate the feel of a real braking system. A Hall Effect accelerator delivers consistent throttle response, while adjustable pedal

resistance, travel, and positioning allow users to tailor the setup to their driving style. An optional clutch module is also available for manual transmission simulations.

Part of Logitech G’s modular Racing Series ecosystem, the RS50 is compatible with interchangeable wheels, pedals, and accessories, allowing users to expand or customize their racing setup over time.

Gaming Peripherals

POCO Pad C1

PHP8,499 (4GB + 64GB)

PHP9,999 (6GB + 128GB)

THE POCO PAD C1 is designed to deliver a largerscreen experience for entertainment, productivity, and everyday use while maintaining a slim, portable form factor.

At the front is a 9.7-inch 2K display with a refresh rate of up to 120Hz for smoother scrolling and video playback. The panel reaches up to 600nits of peak brightness for improved outdoor visibility and carries three TÜV Rheinland eye-care certifications to help reduce eye strain during extended viewing sessions.

Powering the tablet is the Snapdragon 6s 4G Gen 2 Mobile Platform, paired with up to 6GB of RAM and 128GB of internal storage. A microSD card slot supports storage expansion of up to 2TB, providing additional space for apps, photos, videos, and documents.

The POCO Pad C1 is equipped with a 7,600mAh battery rated for up to 1.7 days of typical use. It supports 18W fast charging and 10W wired reverse charging, allowing the tablet to serve as a power source for compatible devices when needed.

Running Xiaomi HyperOS 3, the tablet includes Xiaomi Interconnectivity for cross-device integration, along with Google Gemini and Circle to Search with Google for AIassisted productivity and information lookup. Completing the package is a slim metal unibody design that has undergone more than 40 durability tests for everyday reliability.

Samsung T7 | T9

microSD Cards

T7 - PHP3,143 (128GB) • PHP5,010 (256GB) • PHP9,920 (512GB) • PHP19,841 (1TB)

T9 - PHP3,929 (128GB) • PHP6,188 (256GB) • PHP12,475 (512GB)

SAMSUNG has refreshed its removable storage lineup with the new T7 and T9 microSD Cards, giving users a choice between everyday expandable storage and higher-performance memory for demanding applications.

The T7 microSD Card is designed for generalpurpose use across smartphones, tablets, laptops, handheld gaming consoles, and other compatible devices. Available in capacities from 128GB to 1TB, it offers sequential read speeds of up to 170MB/s for faster file transfers, app loading, and media access. Its UHS-I interface and U3, V30, A2, and Class 10 ratings also support Full HD and 4K video recording.

For users handling larger files and more intensive workloads, the T9 microSD Card

delivers up to 200MB/s sequential read speeds. Offered in 128GB, 256GB, and 512GB capacities, it is suited for gaming, professional content creation, drones, action cameras, and other devices that benefit from faster data transfers. The T9 also features six-proof durability to help protect stored data in a range of operating environments.

Both cards are built on the UHS-I interface and are compatible with a wide range of smartphones, tablets, laptops, cameras, and handheld gaming devices. The launch also introduces Samsung’s updated removable storage branding, making it easier to distinguish products intended for everyday storage needs from those designed for higher-performance applications.

Synology PAS7700

Enterprise Storage

BUILT FOR ORGANIZATIONS running mission-critical applications, the Synology PAS7700 is an active-active all-flash NVMe storage system engineered for high availability, low latency, and enterprise scalability.

The system combines dual active controllers with 48 NVMe SSD bays in a 4U chassis, allowing both controllers to operate simultaneously for continuous service even if one controller or network component fails. The PAS7700 can be expanded to up to 1.65PB of raw storage capacity through seven expansion units.

Designed for data-intensive workloads, the platform supports file and block storage, as well as multiple enterprise protocols, including NVMe-oF, iSCSI, Fiber Channel, SMB, and NFS. Equipped with up to 2TB of memory and 100GbE networking, it delivers up to 2 million IOPS, sub-1-millisecond latency, and sequential throughput of up to 30GB/s.

To safeguard business-critical data, the PAS7700 incorporates tripleparity RAID, mirrored write cache

protection, automatic failover, IP failover, and support for SelfEncrypting Drives (SEDs). Additional data protection features include immutable snapshots, WORM folders, Snapshot Replication, and Hyper Backup to strengthen backup and disaster recovery strategies.

The storage platform also supports online and offline deduplication to improve storage efficiency and extend SSD lifespan. Future support for Synology Tiering will automatically move less frequently accessed data to high-capacity storage, keeping highspeed NVMe resources available for active workloads.

Running on DSM Enterprise, the PAS7700 is designed for data centers, manufacturing, engineering, healthcare, game development, and other environments that require highperformance storage with continuous availability.

TCL A400 Series

THE TCL A400 SERIES combines premium television technology with a design that blends into modern living spaces. Available in the A400M and A400 Pro variants, both models feature an ultra-slim profile, QD-Mini LED display technology, Art Gallery Mode, and an integrated ONKYO 2.0 Hi-Fi Sound System.

When not used for entertainment, the TVs can display hundreds of preloaded artworks or generate AI-created images in a variety of artistic styles, allowing the screens to function as digital art displays. The A400 Pro adds an anti-reflection Matte HVA Panel that minimizes glare for a canvas-like appearance and is paired with a wooden frame, while the A400M uses a traditional high-contrast HVA Panel with a black frame.

Image quality is driven by TCL’s QLED technology, which uses Quantum Dot materials and precision backlighting to reproduce over 1 billion colors while improving light-transmission efficiency. The series is powered by the TSR AiPQ Processor, which performs AI-assisted picture optimization at the pixel level to enhance color, contrast, and detail across various content types.

The A400 Series also incorporates TCL’s AI platform for picture, sound, smart interaction, and content creation features. Audio is delivered through an integrated ONKYO Hi-Fi sound system, providing a more immersive viewing experience without external speakers.

Lifestyle TV

REVIEWED BY ALJHELYN PIADOR

REALME P4X

SMARTPHONE

Just by looking at it, I can tell that realme really went hard on the aura-farming design and, judging by the marketing, even harder on battery life. It looks promising, and the gaming agenda is so loud

that you can almost hear the RGB keyboards clicking from across the room.

But for me, and probably for most people, real rizz isn’t found on the back panel. It’s in what’s inside.

After spending a week with it, bringing it everywhere and making it part of my daily routine, I think I’ve seen enough to know what this phone is really about. Here are my thoughts.

DESIGN

Let’s start with the obvious. This Rally White colorway is, no question, an absolute aura farmer. The racing stripes, sharp accents, and motorsport-inspired design make the P4X look like it should come with a pit crew and a sponsorship deal.

In a sea of rectangles trying to be different, this one actually has a personality.

Now, to be fair, the Aero Racing design is mostly visual. There’s no secret gaming chip hiding underneath nor a Formula 1-grade cooling system waiting to be discovered. What you’re getting is aesthetics. Even so, good aesthetics matter. They give the P4X an identity.

After a week of using it, I realized something: if I accidentally left this phone on a table, I’d spot it immediately. Nobody’s confusing this for any other device. It’s one of those phones that’s surprisingly hard to lose, and apparently pretty easy to get compliments on. More than once, someone asked me what phone I was using before I even turned the screen on.

Now, with an 8,000mAh battery, I was fully expecting a pocket-sized dumbbell. At 219 grams, it’s definitely not light, but

the weight is distributed well enough that it never felt exhausting to use. Considering this thing is built for marathon gaming sessions, that’s a pretty big win.

HARDWARE

Inside, you get a UNISOC T7250 processor, 4GB RAM, and 256GB storage. And for a phone dressed like it’s about to enter a racing competition, I expected a little more muscle.

But after using it for a week, I realized realme was chasing a different goal here. The first thing that stood out to me was the 256GB storage. That’s a lot of room for photos, videos, games, and screenshots you’ll never delete. It’s one less thing to worry about.

The phone also comes with a 6.8-inch 120Hz display, which makes scrolling through social media and navigating the interface feel smooth and responsive. What I also kept noticing was how little the battery seemed to care about my screen time.

Instead of trying to impress me with flashy numbers, it focuses on making everyday use feel easy. Add Android 16 and an IP64 rating for a bit of protection against dust and splashes, and it comes across as a phone built for people who just want something reliable.

USER EXPERIENCE

When it came to gaming, I quickly realized this phone has favorites.

Mobile Legends felt right at home here. Matches were smooth, controls responded well, and even after several games in a row, the phone never felt like it was begging for a break. If I had to guess, this is probably the game realme had in mind when building this thing.

Call of Duty Mobile was a slightly different story. It still played well, especially on Low

settings, and I had no trouble jumping into chaotic Battle Royale matches filled with hot drops, explosions, and smoke everywhere. The stereo speakers also helped make the experience feel more immersive. Push the settings higher, though, and you start asking a bit too much from the phone. Low settings felt like the sweet spot where everything just worked.

Then there’s Genshin Impact, the game that eventually humbles almost every budget phone. On the lowest settings, it’s playable enough for commissions, exploring, and casual sessions. The moment you start asking for prettier graphics, though, the phone starts reminding you what price bracket it’s in.

What I found interesting was that the phone never really felt chaotic, even when juggling games and everyday tasks. A lot of that comes from AI features working quietly in the background. This isn’t the

kind of AI that jumps out and demands attention. It’s more like the friend who cleans up after everyone leaves the party. You barely notice it’s there, but things stay organized, stable, and smooth.

As for the camera, it’s a 50MP shooter that gets the job done. Photos are decent, social media ready, and perfectly fine for everyday moments. But the camera isn’t the main character of this story. The battery is.

The 8,000mAh battery feels almost comically large in actual use. I spent hours gaming, scrolling, watching videos, replying to messages, and doing all the usual phone stuff, yet it always felt like there was plenty left in the tank. One day, I played games for about four hours and only lost around 30% battery. That’s the kind of result that makes you check the battery percentage twice because it doesn’t feel real.

Suddenly, the HD+ screen starts making a lot more sense. Every decision here seems to revolve around one goal: making the battery last as long as possible.

Even charging surprised me. Despite the massive battery, it climbed from 56% to 74% in just 21 minutes. Not bad for a phone carrying what feels like a small power bank inside.

You’re getting 256GB of storage, which is honestly generous these days. You’re getting a 120Hz display that keeps everyday use feeling smooth. You’re getting gaming performance that’s dependable for the titles most people actually play. And, of course, you’re getting a battery that seems completely uninterested in running out.

The thing is, not every phone needs to be the fastest in the room, and most people aren’t spending their day comparing frame rates, zooming in on pixels, or running performance tests for fun. They’re scrolling through social media, watching videos, replying to messages, taking photos, and squeezing in a few games whenever they can. And for everyday use, the realme P4X feels well thought out.

It’s far from perfect, yes, and you’re still trading off raw power and display sharpness, but for what it offers, it feels like a risk that’s actually worth considering if battery life and endurance matter to you.

BOTTOMLINE

The realme P4X does a great job of selling the racing fantasy. The stripes, the sharp lines, and the unapologetically gamer look are designed to catch your eye, and they absolutely do. But after a week of carrying it around, gaming on it, and making it part of my daily routine, I realized the design wasn't what lingered in my mind.

audience and commits to serving them well.

SPECIFICATIONS

6.8-inch HD+ 120Hz display

UNISOC T7250 processor

4GB RAM

256GB storage

8,000mAh battery

Fast charging support 50MP rear camera

IP64 rating Android 16 219g weight

8,000mAh battery monster

Smooth Mobile Legends performance

120Hz large display

Quiet, stable AI optimization

Efficient real-world battery management

Loud, standout racing design

At PHP15,999 SRP, the realme P4X sits in a spot where you can’t really judge it by one spec alone. You have to look at the whole package.

And the more time I spent with it, the more I understood what realme was trying to do here.

What stood out to me was how clear this phone is about who it's for. And that's what I appreciated most about it. It knows its lane, stays in it, and delivers exactly what it says it will. In a market full of phones trying to be a little bit of everything, there's something refreshing about a phone that understands its

UNISOC T7250 is entrylevel

Genshin is only playable on low settings

HD+ resolution only Average camera performance

REVIEWED BY MARIBELLE ALBA

OPPO FIND N6

FOLDABLE SMARTPHONE

When I learned that the OPPO Find N6 would be available in the Philippines, I requested to spend time with a test unit.

My daily setup already revolves around a Mac, an iPhone 16 Pro Max, and an iPad Pro. I also carry an HONOR Magic V3 as a secondary Android foldable because our team operates on Google Workspace, where apps such as Gmail, Google Docs, Drive, Chrome, Meet, and Google Chat benefit from the flexibility of a larger screen and Android’s multitasking capabilities.

I did not need the Find N6 to introduce me to foldables. I wanted to know whether OPPO’s latest device could take the Android spot in my Apple ecosystem.

Its near-creaseless display, surprisingly light design, multitasking features, and optional AI Stylus Set made a strong first impression. The real question was whether those strengths would matter in everyday use.