(From left) PCP Treasurer Edgardo Asuncion, PCP PR Officer Alfredo “Atom” Henares , PCP Executive Director Architect Manuel Dimaculangan, PGA Cars Principal and Founder Robert Coyiuto, Jr., PCP President Ramon S. Ang, PCP Secretary Mario Rossi and PGA Cars Chairman Roberto Coyiuto III.
The recent local debut of the limited-edition Porsche 911 Dakar evolved into a gathering of Porsche Club Philippines (PCP), as enthusiasts and officers alike flocked to the Porsche Philippines showroom in Bonifacio Global City, Taguig. There, they marveled at the exclusive model – one of only 2,500 units worldwide – a versatile iteration of the 911 renowned for excelling not just on the road and track, but also where the asphalt ends.
Inspired by the first overall victory by Porsche in the 1984 Paris-Dakar Rally, which also marked the inception of the all-wheel drive Porsche 911, the new 911 Dakar is available optioned with iconic Rallye Design Package which calls to mind its iconic ancestor. The finish by Porsche Exclusive Manufaktur features two-tone paint in white and Enzian Blue Metallic and is the first time that Porsche has implemented the combination of bi-color paint and decorative foiling in series production.
The Sunday affair was attended by billionaire businessman and noted car collector Ramon S. Ang, who sits as PCP president. Other officers who went to the unveiling were Architect Manny Dimaculangan (executive director), Edgardo Asuncion (treasurer), Alfredo “Atom” Henares (PR officer), and Mario Rossi (secretary).
While the 911 Dakar was the centerpiece of the event, which was also attended by members of the media, the off-roading legacy and history of Porsche was lent further credence with the display of the modified classic Porsche 911 G-Series Safari of Architect Dimaculangan. The vehicle has notched a number of awards, including Best Retro Car at the 2020 edition of the Manila International Auto Show (MIAS) and, more recently, the Fan Favorite Award at 2023’s Hot Wheel Legends regional competition.
“We always note with pride that the Philippines has such a vibrant and engaged community of Porsche owners, which is a testament not only to the brand’s history, but its continued relevance through innovative and exciting offerings such as the 911 Dakar,” said PGA Cars Chairman Roberto Coyiuto III.
To aid in its off-road prowess, the Porsche 911 clears the road 50 millimeters higher versus a 911 Carrera and is fitting with a standard lift system that can raise it an additional 30 millimeters. This exceptional ground clearance, along with generous approach, breakover, and departure angles, rival even some conventional SUVs. And while sporting its high stance, 911 Dakar can tackle off-road situations at speeds up to 170kph.