There is no question that Metro Manila needs a much bigger venue to host major motorshows and other conventions. While it was perfectly adequate 20 years ago for the first edition of the Manila International Auto Show (MIAS), WTC Metro Manila is already bursting at the seams for the 2025 edition in terms of main hall floor space, visitor parking, and definitely airconditioning. It was simply hot inside, as evidenced by the many Jisuulife and Orashare and other personal fans we saw.

Despite these anticipated challenges -plus the roadwork on Macapagal avenue adjacent to the venue and a small fire involving a car at the show that was rapidly extinguished- MIAS handily managed to break their previous record when it came to attendance.

In 2024, the four-day event garnered 162,000 visitors based on ticket sales and passes. The 2025 edition which concluded yesterday clocked in a total of 170,900 visitors.

The number isn’t in doubt at all, given the traffic we witnessed at the event, the volume of vehicles at the parking lots across the venue and even at Star City, as well as how packed (and how warm) WTC was during the show. It’s a testament to the relevance of MIAS as a major consumer event for the automobile market in the Philippines, as MIAS featured 29 car brands -many of which featured affordable hybrids and EVs- at the Main Hall, as well as two custom-built tents and north wing truck area.

Customers also flocked to the test drive areas of MIAS inside the WTC compound. Despite the volume of customers, they patiently waited in the heat for their turn to try out the off-road course and take the cars onto the heavy traffic in the area.

During our visit on Sunday, exhibitors were very happy with the number of reservations of their vehicles from customers that were eager to take advantage of the offers at the show. Many of these offers were also extended by some brands to their other dealers nationwide.

Given the positive outcome despite the challenges, MIAS organizers are already looking forward to the 2026 edition. They will hold it from April 8 to 12, 2026.  We expect even more attendance if the economy remains steadfast, but what we are certain of is that the venue needs a major revamp and expansion. Hopefully they get to augment it by booking SMX MOA to complement the floor space of WTC.