THE Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (Apec) Philippines 2015 week is under way, with 21 countries represented in the forum, namely, Australia, Brunei Darussalam, Canada, Chile, the People’s Republic of China, Hong Kong, Indonesia, Japan, South Korea, Malaysia, Mexico, New Zealand, Papua New Guinea, Peru, the Philippines, Russia, Singapore, Chinese Taipei (Taiwan), Thailand, the United States and Vietnam.
Beginning today, heads of government from the participating nations will arrive in the country for the conference, slated on November 18 and 19, to foster free trade and economic prosperity among Apec member-economies. The leaders’ itineraries will require them to travel between their arrival points; series of summit dialogues at the Makati Shangri-La; plenary sessions at the Philippine International Convention Center; and welcome dinner at the SM Mall of Asia Arena, just to name a few.
They will be provided with an uninterrupted and comfortable ride with class by no less than BMW, which is known for its opulence and sheer driving pleasure.
Last year the German automaker was given the nod as the official premium mobility partner for Apec 2015. Asian Carmakers Corp. (ACC), the official importer and distributor of BMW in the Philippines, recently completed the turnover of BMW luxury cars to the Apec organizers.
“As the preferred premium mobility provider for Apec 2015, we aim to ensure a positive experience among delegates by offering the best models in our portfolio. We have especially commissioned cars that uphold the global BMW standards of safety and performance to support the government’s efforts in driving economic growth in the Philippines and the region,” ACC President Maricar Parco said.
The heads of state—except for US President Barrack Obama—will be transported by BMW’s flagship 7 Series long-wheelbase sedans, which are some of the most technologically advanced cars in the world. Their elegant and intricate styling exudes a superior presence suitable for luminaries. Every leader or VIP will be pampered inside the luxurious and expansive cabin, thanks to the additional 5.5 inches of rear-seat legroom. Moreover, the plush interior’s bits and pieces will absolutely provide that quintessential BMW feel. Included in the fleet is the 5 Series—both in sedan and Grand Turismo versions. The 5 Series is impressive at first glance with its modern and aesthetic exterior. High-quality materials inside the cabin are perfectly tailored for modishness, as well as coziness. The diesel-powered variant will definitely impress their distinguished passengers, as this version fits them well.
Meanwhile, Toyota Motor Philippines (TMP) entered into an agreement with the government early this year to also serve as the mobility partner in the Apec Philippines 2015.
“We are thankful that we have been given this opportunity to become the mobility partner of Apec Philippines 2015 by providing 296 Toyota vehicles to be used as transportation for the public and private sectoral meetings, as well as during the summit. But more than just providing the means for mobility, Toyota is one with Apec and the Philippine government in realizing this year’s theme, ‘Building Inclusive Economies, Building a Better World,” TMP President Michinobu Sugata said.
Ensuring comfort, reliability and toughness is a convoy of 70 Camry 2.5G AT, 50 Altis 1.6V AT (black), 90 Fortuner G 4X2 diesel (black), 43 Fortuner V 4X2 diesel (black) and 43 Hi-Ace GL Grandia MT (two-toned). Representatives will definitely benefit from the proven performance of this Toyota caravan to ferry them to their respective destinations.
The government employed restricted passageways on both inner lanes of the northbound and southbound segments of Edsa and other major streets in the metro to achieve constant, safe and swift navigation. Over the weekend before the forum, the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority, in cooperation with the local government, started doing dry runs to test the effectivity of the routes. Car fanatics will certainly enjoy watching the finest BMW sedans and Toyota-commissioned vehicles cruising along the restricted paths during Apec 2015.