MANILA, Philippines—With the entry of summer, the competition heats up and once again this year, some of the country’s most desirable classic and modified cars are on display at the Manila International Auto Show (MIAS). Last year, taking the Best of Show title was the 1967 Ford Mustang Fastback entered by Alex Restoration and owned by director Edgar Mortiz. It also won Best in Paint, Best Interior, and Best Golden Era Modified. Runner-up Best of Show was the 1969 Toyota Crown of Glenn Avilon, entered by Classic Auto Club. This year the trophy for Best of Show is again up for grabs together with over a dozen category awards for both classic and customized cars.
The MIAS Custom Classic Car Competition (MCCC) is a yearly tribute to the artisans and craftsmen of various disciplines and trades. From tinsmiths, to engine rebuilders, to paintshop and mural artists and leathersmiths, these people are a league of their own. These people are dedicated to preserving and refurbishing collectible classic and vintage cars as well as customizing newer cars to various concepts and restyling. Year in and year out customizers and car restorers vie for the ultimate Best of Show title to show who’s the best in the domain of showcars and car collector market.
Taking months or even years to build or rebuild, these cars are lovingly restored and customized not only for the guilty pleasure of its owners but also to the enjoyment of car enthusiasts who appreciate these fine and unique vehicles. Regardless of the value of the prize, most car owners and car shops focus on winning the trophy for prestige of being able to be considered and ranked by their peers in the industry as having produced the best work for the season.
One veteran in this field is Alex Isip of Alex Car Restoration. Having participated close to two decades in the field of car show competitions, he has decided this year to be part of the judging committee instead. Having competed on the local front and even sometimes on international competitions, he knows how tough it is to win in car shows. Although this year’s roster of custom and classic cars may come in form of different makes, models and vintages, one thing remains the same, the high level of dedication and work put into crafting these cars into something much better that they were when they came out of the factory.
To look at these automotive beauties in the flesh, visit the MIAS at the World Trade Center on April 7 to 10, from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.