From the high walls of the Palacio de Memoria gates up to the receiving area in the back was a long dreadful walk. Especially these days.

The sun was just past its peak and there was no immediate shade along the way.

Good thing the driveway was lined up with restored units of the iconic Ford Mustangs — of different model years and colors — owned by the people who gathered inside the pre-war mansion by Roxas Boulevard.

The venue and the occasion couldn’t be more fitting: The 60th anniversary of the beloved pop culture symbol right at an old stately home preserved to its glory.

Nice touch there.

“The Mustang has undergone evolution over the last six decades, but one thing remains the same — the Mustang’s unparalleled driving performance that represents the spirit of freedom, passion and innovation,” said Ford Philippines managing director Mike Breen.

“We are thrilled to join the global celebration of Mustang’s 60th anniversary, but most of all, we are excited to open the next chapter for this icon with the launch of the All-New Mustang in the Philippines in May.”

It was actually a simultaneous celebration around the world. Because exactly 60 years ago that day (17 April), Ford unveiled the original Mustang at the World’s Fair in New York.

It has sold more than 10 million units since and has been the world’s best-selling sports car for more than a decade now.

Ford Philippines brought together members of the Mustang Club Philippines, the Mustang Enthusiasts Philippines, and Mustang owners and fans for an anniversary meet-up.

And with pop singer Paolo Santos serenading by the courtyard, Breen pulled the cover from the seventh-generation all-new Mustang.

It is set to be launched next month yet. But there’s no moment too early, or a minute too late, to witness such beauty.

There, the bright yellow all-new Mustang preened in the center of the sprawling garden, bathed by the golden sunset light, with music in the background. And ice-cold beer being served.