Autopro gathers car enthusiasts together
One need not race in order to be part of the group. This group is devoted to people who are into cars, who are passionate about their cars
You see them around the city streets, sporting great cars with superb engine power. They also figure in drag races (outside Iloilo, of course), car shows and fun runs. They belong to a newly formed group of car enthusiasts called Autopro.
One need not race in order to be part of the group. "This group is devoted to people who are into cars, who are passionate about their cars. If you're such person, you are welcome to join the group," said Jun Cabrera, one of the founders.
"Before drag racing got banned in Iloilo, we took part in such activity here. But now, we join drag races in Cebu or Manila. Here, our projects are motorsports related," he added.
To promote camaraderie in this already close-knit group and create more awareness about them, Autopro is holding its second fun run this Sunday, Jan. 20, 2008 starting at Starmart Jaro. After that, the group will drive from one place to another. This activity will also give the group members a chance to experience Iloilo's famous destinations.
Also, Ilonggos will get a chance to see the members' cars during a car show at Maki Japanese Restaurant and Sushi Bar on Jan. 25, 2008.
Another activity that Autopro is preparing for is the Tommy Osmeña National Drag Race Series in Cebu on February 24 and 25. This drag race is sanctioned by the Philippine Drag Racing Federation. This is the third time that Autopro will join since 2006 and they will compete against participants from Cebu, Manila, Davao and Pampanga.
The group plans to hold more car shows and some fundraising activities in the future. It has 35 active members. Its officers are JR Tugbang, president; Lito Fernandez, vice president; Jen Natividad, secretary; Brando Mahinay, treasurer; Allan Palacios, PRO; and Allan Reteracion, sergeant at arms. The board members are Jun Cabrera, Mark Colorado, Gilda Pugales, Chris Colada and Cheryl Liboon.