We all have experienced the brunt brought about by this ongoing global health crisis. We have been burdened, not just by limited movement caused by strict quarantines or by unemployment due to a shuttered economy, but most importantly by the havoc that has claimed millions of lives around the world, including those of our beloved colleagues, friends and even loved ones, threatening — even — our very own existence that we very much hold dear.

In turn, the pandemic has reminded us — or those of us left who survived it — that life is ever fleeting. It reminded us that our lives and the lives of others, particularly those close to us, are much more important than anything on this earth. Moreover, it has taught us the basics. And this does not include that precious Lamborghini parked in your garage or that hundred grand Rolls-Royce umbrella carefully tucked in your car door. In short, it has further taught us the essence of humanity. And as we slowly recover from the pandemic's harmful effects, we carry these lessons with us.

In the automotive industry, for example, its movers and shakers know this, in particular.

Recently, during the press conference of the 8th Philippine International Motor Show, this — in fact — was further emphasized.

Here, all the members of the Chamber of Automotive Manufacturers of the Philippines Inc. were present after the much-anticipated biennial event's four-year hiatus.

CAMPI president, Atty. Rommel Gutierrez during the press conference even said, "Through this comeback, we want to highlight the industry's role not only as an engine for economic growth and development, but also its higher purpose of moving humanity forward through innovations for the common good. And with that, I'm proud to introduce our theme for this year's Philippine International Motor Show: Mobility + Humanity."

"With this year's thetme, we aim to unite and drive our collective efforts toward a shared mission of building a better and more sustainable future for Filipinos through mobility. We will accomplish this by coming together to showcase the positive impact of sustainable and future-ready innovations on our day-to-day lives," he further added.

Slated this 15 to 18 September at the World Trade Center in Pasay City, PIMS will bring together the biggest auto manufacturers and distributors to showcase their latest vehicles and cutting-edge technologies. 13 of the top local automotive brands, such as: BMW, Foton, Honda, Isuzu, Kia, Mazda, Mitsubishi, Nissan, Suzuki, and Toyota, as well as new members Chery, Geely, and Hyundai will be unveiling their latest and most recent innovations that will drive the future of mobility. Of course, all these innovations providing safer, more efficient and sustainable vehicles will be centered with its theme: "Mobility + Humanity: Innovating for the Common Good."

In the four-day affair, safety protocols are likewise implemented to ensure a healthy and fun environment for everyone.

Resilience in our DNA

This year's motor show returns despite reeling amid the pandemic's heavy blow. All these years, industry players have been constantly adjusting and adapting to the needs of consumers relative to the impacts of the pandemic. CAMPI has remained steadfast in its commitment to pushing the automotive industry forward by working with the government and the private sector alike in creating policies, programs, and other activities that not only maximize the industry's role in the country's economic growth and development, but also provide mobility solutions that cater to the ever-changing needs of Filipinos.

"Despite the challenges, we are positive that the industry is on its way to revival and recovery as evidenced by the digit-growth in the past month with an 18.4-percent increase in vehicle sales year-to-date," Gutierrez continued.

"Currently, we are almost at 57-percent of our annual industry target."

According to the CAMPI head honcho, the industry aims to reach 336,000 units sold by the year-end.

Hence, with all these said, this writer is just thrilled in looking forward to two weeks' time as mobility — or rather, humanity with a touch of mobility "at its finest" unfolds.