The Market Monitor Minding the Nation's Business

Vinfast received a monumental achievement of 3,520 orders all within a single Saturday (March 28, 2026) and without any dedicated promotional campaign tied to the date, revealing how ecosystem-building can turn interest into action without the usual triggers seen in the auto industry. The March 28 result stands apart because it was not engineered, or at least not in a …

Mitsubishi Motors Corporation revealed its intention to participate in the Philippine government’s electric vehicle promotion program — Electric Vehicle Incentive Strategy — during a meeting in Malacanang recently between President Bongbong Marcos and Takao Kato, the chief executive officer of Mitsubishi Motors. Subject to the approval of Mitsubishi Motors’ application to join EVIS, Mitsubishi Motors Philippines Corporation — Mitsubishi Motors’ …

DENZA premium new energy vehicle brand B5 and B8 takes center stage at the upcoming Manila International Auto Show 2026, marking its first major auto show participation in the country reflecting the brand’s growing confidence and long-term commitment to delivering premium, future-ready mobility for Filipino drivers.  DENZA will highlight the DENZA D9 alongside the DENZA Z9 GT, showcasing the brand’s …

Internationally acclaimed actor Daniel Craig will headline a new DENZA global campaign as the premium, technology-driven automotive brand accelerates its international expansion in 2026. Positioned as a premium brand dedicated exclusively to new energy vehicles, DENZA aims to attract a new generation of customers with its distinctive blend of advanced innovation and refined design. As part of this milestone, Daniel …

The UAAGI Auto Group will be the center of attraction when the 2026 Manila International Auto Show fires off with an unrivaled presence that spans the event’s most prominent locations from April 9 to 12 at the World Trade Center in Pasay City. UAAGI spans the western flank of the venue – ft1`aptly designated “The UAAGI West Wing”—transforming the area …

GWM Philippines goes beyond traditional vehicle displays when the brand unveils an immersive experience designed around its philosophy: “All Powertrains, All Scenarios, All Users” at the Manila International Auto Show 2026. Visitors can explore two dynamic zones — The Technology Zone, showcasing the brand’s new energy solutions that balance efficiency, practicality, and innovation for today’s market challenges and The Adventure …

THE Fédération Internationale de Teqball (FITEQ) vowed to support and develop in the Philippines the fast-growing sport that is now on the official programs of major international competitions. “Teqball has gained outstanding popularity recently and it’s one sport that Filipino athletes could potentially dominate,” said Tolentino, who welcomed FITEQ president Dr. Victor Huszár on Maundy Thursday at the Shangri La …

THE biggest cash pot ever in Philippine cycling history of P12 million will be up for grabs in the 2026 MPTC Tour of Luzon (ToL) with the rider wearing the yellow jersey at the end of the 14-stage race bringing home P1 million and the team that stands atop the podium rejoicing its way to the bank with P2 million. …

REALPOLITIKBy Benjie Alejandro The reopening of oil and gas exploration talks between the Philippines and China has stirred both skepticism and cautious optimism. Herman Tiu Laurel, president of the Asian Century Philippines Strategic Studies Institute (ACPSSI), told The Manila Times that the move comes “very late in the day,” driven by fears of a looming energy crisis linked to escalating …

BAGUIO CITY, Philippines — In a show of collaboration across creative fields, the Quezon City government sealed a partnership with Baguio City at the Montañosa Film Festival, strengthening ties within the UNESCO Creative Cities Network. The alliance between two UNESCO Creative Cities, Quezon City for Film and Baguio City for Crafts and Folk Arts, was formalized during the UNESCO Creative …