Gogoro Philippines Launch New Experience Store in Makati

It's a nice morning to celebrate new things as Gogoro Philippines just launched their new Gogoro Experience Store at the Greenbelt 3 in Makati City. The event was held at Ayala Museum with executives coming from the Ayala Corporation, Globe, GCash, 917 Ventures, Gogoro Taiwan, Gogoro Philippines, the Taiwanese Embassy in Manila and various stakeholders were in attendance to take a first glimpse of what will be launched and supposed to be sold next month. This is quite nice that they thought of making sure you experience riding, looking at the actual Electronic Vehicle first before they release it to the market.

Bernie Llamzon the President and CEO of GOGOGRO Philippines "It's a testament to urban mobility. Why are we opening the experience center? It's all about connection, and who stands to benefit from it, YOU. It's a bridge, we are opening our doors today so you can touch, feel and understand Gogoro. We are cultivating a community and it is an invitation for you to become part of the story. Your engagement and feedback will be part of our commercial launch next month. Welcome to the future of mobility, welcome to the new Gogoro Experience Center."

This is one of Ayala's projects in order to move to electric vehicles. Cesar Consing the CEO and President of the Ayala Corporation says "We do it across our companies, and this initiative of going green is something we take seriously. Gogoro is just an extension of that, we are going to lead the charge to EV's. That's what we are doing here, and this partnership of Gogoro and Globe, brought this EV brand in the Philippines. It's green, ecosystem and partnership that we are offering. We hope you like what you'll see."

Horace Luke the founder and CEO of Gogoro says "I've dreamed of this in 2011, we are now extending to outside Taiwan. Thank you to Ernest Cu of Globe who believes in me, and we know the world is going to two wheel and three wheel vehicles now. Thank you to the Gogoro Philippines team and the Taiwan team who worked tirelessly these past few years to bring this product to the PH. The electricity is sustainable, and recyclable parts are being used to make the footprint lower. We look forward to see what we built enable this vision in this country."

Ernest Cu the CEO of Globe says "When I saw this in Taiwan years ago, it was super nice. I didn't like bikes back then, EV was also too far from the Philippines. We timed our entry to the country, like GCash, no one was solving the problem and we only scaled it 6 years ago. The smartphone penetration was not as good, and when the pandemic hit we began working on it even more to become financially inclusive. Majority of Filipinos don't have plugs, the one minute swap is like prepaid... And we are the prepaid kings in the country. Now it is all paid electronically through GCash. It's different, and seamless now as it goes through the backbone of Globe and it's partners. Let us see the new Gogoro Experience Center, we want this to be perfect and hope you become our first customer."

You may also ask for a test drive as arrangements can be made, they also will explain to you the battery swapping mechanics so you could conveniently do it via their Gogoro Network power stations. The Smartscooters we saw on display was the Gogoro SuperSport, Gogoro VIVA and the Gogoro S1. Though they will make sure that the Gogoro 2 Premium and the Gogoro Delight will also be available in the Philippines.

You may visit the new Gogoro Experience Store at the 2nd level of Greenbelt 3, turn right when you enter through the bridge from Landmark (location of former Globe store).

Philippine Cycling Festival's Second Salvo at Clark, Pampanga

I've been on a bike since I was 4, so in a sense it's second nature to me. It's a relatively good hobby, as you get good exercise, but never got competitive. 

 

Folks who would want to take it to another level though could start at the Philippine Cycling Festival which will happen on March 11 to 12 at Clark in Pampanga. This is a 2 day cycling event aimed to strengthen and immerse YOU into cycling culture. This is hosted by Neo Zigma Corporation in cooperation with Interval Gear Events Management and Metro Ad-vantage Media Marketing. This is their second time to do it and there are about 3000+ cycling enthusiasts that are expected to be there come plus their family and friends, ultimately to enjoy several races, retail shops, merch and bike shows too.

There will also be talks by some of the most influential bikers and bike product manufacturers in the country. For a little entertainment, there will also be live performances during this 2 day event, so make sure you get comfy on your seats while you are there.

Aside from that, there will be events at Clark Speedway on March 11th, a Mountain Bike XC race on March 12th via the Clark Paradise trail at Midori Hotel outdoor grounds and a night ride at The Villages (11th), plus Clark and the Gravel Race on March 12 too. The event will be supported by AXN, Fitbar, Pru Life UK, NLEX, TCG, Filinvest and a lot of others who believe in the cause. 

 

Last year's event was able to raise funds for PEACE CAMP at Brgy. Sapang-Uwak. They were given over 60 bikes and was done through Metro Pacific Investment Foundation, their CSR partner. If you want to know more about the cause and charities they help, please visit their official website www.philippinecyclingfestival.com today. So if you're serious about this, it's time to prepare for that grand event!

Matteo Guidicelli and UNIQLO Sport Utility Wear

UNIQLO just came out with new Sports Utility Wear that jazzes up your run of the mill everyday clothes and turn them to efficient and technologically advanced workout clothes. Now that's good news for people on the go or young professionals who workout before and after office hours as it will be doubly convenient to do so.

If you're the type who sweats profusely, feel sticky with your current ones and need a change everytime you do things, they've come out with UNIQLO Dry Ex which prevents these from happening and with its design, make you move comfortably in strainous or regular gym sessions. They also do good because they incorporate polyester fibers from PET bottles and upcycle them so you get a quick drying polo shirt, no odor too. 

Felt cute so I wore this mesh fibered shirt for a Bamboo bike tour around BGC. It was a bit dangerous, but I enjoyed it!

There were a lot of choices from Women's Dry Ex Crew Neck Shirts, Women's Airism UV Cut Jackets, Women's Airism Soft Leggings, Men's Full Zip Hoodies and Dry Ex Shorts, they've made it with quality in mind and yes, it's comfy.

You may also check out the whole collection using the UNIQLO Mobile App, I have taken advantage of the 300 coupon welcome gift and bought around 3k worth of clothes which I use for workout at home.

Guys and gals took to the floor and worked out with celebrities and models plus Matteo Guidicelli. I was overjoyed he remembered me from previous events. They got so intense with that session.

Now go head to UNIQLO after the lockdown of Manila. We need to get back in shape when life goes back to normal.

Cheers! Hope you all stay safe!

WEEXPRESS Starts Operations in Metro Manila

Bicycles and Motorcycles are in a way a tad environmentally apt especially in Asian countries. Manila traffic has been horrendous - so why not make it the opportune time to just stay at home, the office and be more productive and let other people take the job of delivery. This is where WeeXpress comes in.

Soon they are going to have total logistics solutions but for the mean time, they have a fleet of bikes and Motorcycles that would be able to deliver mails, packages,and just about anything imaginable that their mode of transportation can carry. Payment right now is only cash and their guarantee is 8 hours from sender to receiver, yeah same day delivery, wouldn't that be a nice thing?

Book a pickup, wait for the rider, track your parcel and get it delivered! Their Facebook page is Facebook.com/WeeXpresstm. First three kilometers only cost 60 pesos, there is a 10 peso difference if you plan to do it via roadside or door to door. Their delivery men are mostly bikers so it is environmentally safe. They can go through traffic with ease so if you plan to surprise people this Christmas, you know who to call. They are also planning Visayas and Mindanao operations next year so don't worry. As of now, they will service the greater Manila area. Easy, stress free, and would you believe, environmentally responsible to do it.

Michael Maranan the WeeXpress Chairman says "This was my concept in 2010 and I want the riders to have an opportunity to earn, to make those who need work to actually have something he or she could live by. I have been industry for a few years and everything is fast, we aim to be the cheapest fastest and environmentally conscious delivery service. We earn and help other people. They bike, exercise and stay healthy while they are earning through our app. Online sellers also will benefit from this, we have safeguards also in hiring riders so your parcel will always be safe."

Aside from that, they have dedictaed people to answer your queries and support you with your rider needs.

Make sure it's 5 kilos for bikes, 15 kilos for motorbikes. Download the app today!

KUMAGCOW

Fresh Blogs Fast!

Ortigas & Co. Opens The Bike Playground at Circulo Verde

Have you gone to Circulo Verde? It's been a while for me and from the looks of it, they have changed a lot. I was here when they started constructing it a few years ago because I work nearby. Ortigas & Company had a really good vision developing this place into a township. This was once a river cabbage plantation that sat beside the Marikina River. They developed dikes and a model sewerage system so it won't get flooded. Built buildings for condo dwelling and several structures which now houses restaurants and businesses built right inside the community. 

That's not all, because this time Ortigas & Co. is launching a new venue for bike enthusiasts. It's called "The Bike Playground Circulo Verde" which sits at the back of the sprawling property. They now have an internationally designed bike trail, one for the kids, plus a facility indoors with asphalt. The tracks are designed for all levels and even if it's technical, they can still join and ride on the track for only 65 pesos for the whole day and 95 for night rides. 

During the event, the blessing was graced by world champion Adrien Loron and Ortigas & Co Executives. They also did several bike stunts and excercises together with fitness vixen and TV personality Diane Castillejo. Now you've got to bring your bikes to Circulo Verde and try the course yourself. It's affordable, you've got places to run, bike and eat in one place. Make sure you bring your friends along, it's right behind Eastwood and you won't get lost, just follow the arrows to get there.

KUMAGCOW

Fresh Blogs Fast!

Honda Philippines Launches CBR 150R

Suzuki Mitsugishi welcomed us to the Honda Gen S Red Zone in BGC. He says "Our product, people and customers are important and we hope to continue to inspire more as the leader in the region. We are proud to launch the new sports bikes, it will be something that Filipinos would love to have. The race track is our testing ground and we won't put out something that doesn't pass that."

They added "The Gen S is for our customers that is more sporty and is looking for a more efficient motor. The joy of handling is what we look for in a bike, plus higher displacement, brute power, and be at a pocket friendly price. The ride can control engine power when needed, the CDR is improved maneuverability and styling. It's the weight reduction and mass centralization, strong but lightweight, reduced engine vibration and improved seat design, where you can get strong torque. The DOGC 6 speed engine is on a class leading performance, from low to mid and high end. It's also styled differently among other sports bikes."

Our motorbike sales in the Philippines has increased and we are at levels with India, Thailand and Indonesia. CBR150R is intended for the younger generation and Honda Philippines has been working hard to come out with new sports models to fit their lifestyle. It costs Php 150,000 (the black one), Php 152,000 (the red one) and Php 155,000 (for the orange one).

It's so nice I want one! It's a bit pricey but I think they've got installment plans for this. Just go to your friendly dealers today!

KUMAGCOW

Fresh Blogs Fast!

Green Alternatives: Taiwan Bicycles in Manila

I still remember the time when I first rode this two wheeled vehicle and was able to do so without trainers or help from grown ups when I was 4. After riding it for a few minutes and getting to the end of the street, I realized that I was too happy driving but I haven't even learned how to stop. Oh yes! I fell off the bike and cried because people were chasing me down the street and didn't look back. It's where I learned I could do things by myself, the first taste of independence was addicting but I felt it was all worth it. I did something that none of my playmates would even imagine I could do. Back then, everybody was doing it for fun and I love the fact that it didn't even had to be filled up with gas which grown ups do. In my city, it was so fresh and breezy to go to parks, run around and drive proud with my two wheeled wonder. I wonder if it's the same for the kids now.

The other day, I got a glimpse of what the situation is commuting in public. Although it was fine to be in public vehicles that carry a lot of people from point A to point B, I could smell and see smoke coming out of the muffler and we have sardine can like MRT/LRT as options. Sad story, but I think there is still hope. I've seen a lot of guys take cycling seriously and doubly happy the Filipinos has been bitten by the bug to take environmentally great steps to be involved to love the worthwhile sport. Brands from around the world even take our young nation to be one of the best places to showcase their products, I'm glad they even took notice because it's an emerging market as we go greener, even more. 

Aside from the opportunity of helping the environment, health-wise, it's the best thing that could ever happen to you if you pick up the habit. Doing a few kilometers would get a few calories burned, fat dissolved and kilograms lost in the mid section. It's benefits have been unquestioned by health and fitness professionals so why shouldn't we do it right? Some might be put off by the high prices but there are better options out there like Strida, Tern and Pacific who have foldable bikes that are affordable yet quality. These brands carry The  Taiwan  Excellence seal which was campaigned by Bureau  of  Foreign  Trade  of  Taiwan (BOFT) and implemented by their very own Taiwan External Trade Development Council (TAITRA). It's Taiwan's mark of quality that guarantees the superior value of lifestyle brands all over Asia which now includes the Philippines. They even coined the term "innovalue" as they continue to produce products to stay ahead of the pack when it comes to manufacturing with the highest standards. They've got lots more where that came from and it's reassuring to get world class products undergo strict quality processes so you know you're getting what you paid for. You can get to the destination, help the environment and stay healthy. How can you beat that? 

I'm going on a trail this weekend with some friends just for fun, you should too!

For more information about their organization:

Taiwan Excellence

Like them on Facebook


Visit their official website

http://www.taiwanexcellence.ph

Vikings: Premiers September 29 at History Channel Asia

I was so happy to have been able to see another talked about series ahead of the rest of Asia called VIKINGS. It's on its second season and has been able to amass its own following in the US, Europe and now Asia. It's also going to be shown on HISTORY channel which I'm so lucky about because I have it at home. You should definitely watch it on HD because it's totally worth it!

Here's a sneak peek at season II

(Video credits owned by History Channel on Youtube)

Imagine men, who promised to be brothers then went on a journey to the other end of the world. Claimed land and got victorious on different battles, but in the end met each other in different sides of the fence; end up wanting to kill each other through rough, mud and ocean water indulged brute war. It was awesome to watch the first few episodes and you'll surely get hooked seeing the twists and turns on Season II. You'll miss your Norse mythological characters all over again plus see some things more than skin, the act itself and some other unexpected scenes you would have to keep away from kids.

I highly suggest you start season 2 sitting down and concentrating on how to understand the story because even a skeptic like me really LOVED it! You will also have that time to see how honorable Ragnar Lothbrok (played by Travis Fimmel) is in the series. Plus (during the event), we even got cool stuff from the History channel too!

Vikings will be shown on HISTORY CHANNEL ASIA come September 29. It's a little late than in North America but as long as it's here I WILL PROMISE TO WATCH IT. Even if they say I'm a pagan after the show hehe. Oh and before I forget, they will be giving away a HARLEY DAVIDSON bike if you watch it on Sunday at 10PM. Just look out for the CODE WORD and enter it on http://www.vikingsasia.com/. Who knows, it could be you who'll win this! =)

 For more information about the show

Like History Channel Asia on Facebook!

History Asia

NUVALI's Dirt Weekend Invitational!

I'm so excited to hear news about Nuvali. This was just announced last Saturday and boy oh boy people are flocking all the way to the south just to get a load of this!

Well, if it was fun on this Dirtbike Weekend that I witnessed last year... it's even going to be MORE serious this year as they will have a Dirt Week Invitational where competitors from all over the Philippines, our national teams and even our neighbors from the Southeast Asian region will compete and vie for recognition by the UCI; because as you register, it will include the membership to Philcycling (the national federation).Upon securing the license, you can join the sanctioned race in this cycling spectacle!

All the tracks, registration and the other events this year have been organized by these individuals in coordination with national sports agencies as this will be also observed by Union Cycliste Internationale. This event in November will comprise of Cross Country (XCO/XCR) and Four Cross events. In the meantime, from April 26 to 28, they will still hold a local Dirt Weekend. You should get your gears and sample the almost 2000 hectares of land that Nuvali has and enjoy what true evo living is all about courtesy of Ayala Land.

Invited local squads like Bikeworkx, Sabak, Potato Corner, Yellow Cab, KTM, John Wilkie, EXO, Cycleine of Mindanao and Prima/Isuzu D-Max will be there to give the rest of the competitors a run for their posts. Even some slots will be actually given to lucky ones if they get to beat members from the national team according to their Chairman. So this means if there are going to be remarkable cyclists that can beat the ones from the pool, they can be fully sponsored by the government after this. Who wouldn't be challenged by that? =) It's an official SEA Games qualifier!

For more outdoor fun, make NUVALI your next destination and make sure you will be there on November and this weekend for more action down south!

Check out their Facebook Page for more information

Nuvali