Last Sunday, the Philippines once again gather the attention of the world when it launched the largest and longest parade of Volkswagen Beetles and alike, all from Volkswagen. It was given a national media mileage and was the talk of the nation, even in the national television. There are only 500 cars expected but they went beyond that when more than 800 VW join the parade. Since its market debut, it was shipped all over the world and landed a great success in sales when they reached the Philippines in the 1930's. Since then, it has been part of the Philippine culture. There is not a single street in the country were you cannot see a beetle, or for local term, it is more commonly known as 'pagong' or turtle for obviously looking more like a turtle than a beetle.
My friend personally witnessed the event and blogged about it. The parade started at around 8am, Sunday, in the Quezon Memorial Circle in Quezon City, the largest and wealthiest city of the country. Locals and foreigners joined the parade that resulted in a new world record for the Philippines.
Volkswagen Beetles started with Adolf Hitler asked Ferdinand Porsche to create a car that will be called 'The People's Car'. In a few years, the Volkswagen models were ready for commercial use.
Even though it's been way too long since Volkswagen reigned the Philippine roads, it is sure that they, the Beetles, will forever be in the hearts of every Filipino drivers and passengers.
Automobile Blog April Archive
