The Launch of Adventure 4X Magazine at the 2015 Manila Auto Salon

14 November 2015

Last Saturday, we all attended the launch of the country's first and only off-road adventure/lifestyle magazine, Adventure 4X, at the 2015 Manila Auto Salon held at the SMX Convention Center in SM Mall of Asia.















What I've learned in life is that most opportunities that open up usually come from connections - from friends, co-workers, family - especially if you've developed a great camaraderie and work ethic that makes it easy for them to recommend you and your work to other people.  My new gig as the Editorial Consultant for Adventure 4X Magazine happened in a similar fashion as the Publisher and Editorial Director of the magazine, Neil Palabrica, used to be Patrick's boss at Summit Media.

The position was first offered to Patrick but he had to turn it down because it would be in conflict with his ties to Top Gear Philippines.  He mentioned that since I was the one who usually edits and proofreads his articles before he sent them to the mag, I was more than capable to handle the job.  So, I took on the task last September-October, coordinating with Neil to get a feel for what he wanted and this is the product.  Most of the articles were already written and all I had to do was edit and proofread them.  I suppose I'm also looking forward to writing some articles too, in the future, because off-roading and all their adventures sound exciting!

Needless to say, when we got to SMX for the launch, we were buzzing with excitement so that we can unveil our product to everyone.

We arrived early for the 7PM launch so we took some time going around the convention to check out the cars and products.  Dylan liked this truck displayed at the 199 Off-Road House booth.

Dylan was as big as the wheel

 We saw this StormTrooper and we couldn't resist a picture.

Finally, the launch started. Neil began the short ceremony with his Opening Remarks.

Mr. Reinhard Liemroth of Berrima Diesel gave a short speech about his experience with offroading here in the Philippines (he's from Australia).  He will be writing a section, Diesel Torque, for the magazine and it will be all about Diesel!

Next, it was Raymond Saguin's turn at the mic.  He's the President and CEO of Recovery Route Media, Inc., the publisher of the magazine.

Next, the renowned Mr.  Ramon Toong, took to the stage.  He is the magazine's Publishing Consultant as he is the current President of the NAsFOR, the National Association of Filipino Off-roaders.He spoke of his desire to create a publication that will serve as a guide for all off-roaders, whether beginners or professionals, in their shared passion.  He stressed how important it is to be informed and to be prepared when undertaking offroading adventures because it's not just fun but safety too.

Last but not the least, Ms. Sophie delos Santos, President of Tradeshow International, the organizer of the Manila Auto Salon, spoke a few words.  She mentioned that she was very happy that they're hosting the launch of Adventure 4X.  She reminisced about the time when the Manila Auto Salon was first starting and it was then known as Sport Truck Show, Mr. Ramon Toong was one of the first people and exhibitors to participate in the event.

The launch also gave away T-Shirts, a Plug and Go gadget and a TOPTUL Professional set to lucky winners.

After the launch ended, we all trooped to the Marina Restaurant for dinner.  There was so much food that night we didn't know what to eat first.  I have to mention that their grilled tuna belly and garlic butter scallops were great! In between bites, we took the time to review how the magazine came out and what needs to be improved for the next issue.

Thank you Neil for trusting us with your baby and thank you for dinner! :) To everyone, grab a copy of our maiden issue at your local magazine stores and stands.