Overland Expo

 PH OVERLAND EXPO
Mototesto Overland Equipment Philippines is one of the lead organizers of the Philippine Overland Expo. Since its launching in 2016, the off-road event has become the most anticipated overlanding gathering in the country.

The organizers of the Philippine Overland Expo define the term as a self-reliant overland travel to remote destinations. “It’s a step up from your usual road trip. We need to cross rivers, tackle rough terrain, and getting stuck is sometimes part of the fun!” said Tim Tuazon of Mototesto Overland Equipment Philippines, one of the lead organizers of the event.

Days before an event, participants attend a safety briefing where they are given a thorough orientation on what to expect during the expo and what preparations are needed not just for themselves, but for their respective vehicles as well.

Since there aren't any electricity, clean water source, or gas stations within the campsite, participants are required to bring food and water as well as basic outdoor equipment such as stoves, cooking utensils, tables, chairs, tents including portable toilets. Fortunately, products made specifically for Overlanding and camping are now available locally. One such shop is Mototesto Overland Equipment.

With regards to the ideal overlanding vehicle, it must be a 4x4 truck or SUV fitted with mud tires and lifted suspensions. "Larger tires must, of course, be complemented with a suspension that has a higher ride height and high performance dampening properties to absorb all the bumps,” added Tim Tuazon of KONI Suspension Philippines. These upgrades are needed to ensure the safety and comfort of the passengers.

The event also allows first-time overlanders to venture out of their comfort zone confidently, given the fact that they will be in the company of seasoned overlanders. Mototesto, on its part, welcomes newbies with open arms given the fact that they'll have a chance not only to showcase their products' performance - from camping gear to 4x4 suspension upgrades - but have the opportunity, as well, to introduce their clients to the exciting adventure lifestyle.

“We have proper wheels and tires for special drives such as this. You won’t be going to a basketball game with leather dress shoes, right?” said Justin Uy, marketing head of Black Rhino Wheels – Philippines. “Likewise, the larger tires must be complemented with a suspension that has a higher ride height and high performance dampening properties to absorb all the bumps,” added Tim Tuazon of KONI Suspension Philippines.

In 2019, the 4th Overland Philippines Expo which was held within the vicinity of Mt. Pinatubo in Zambales saw hundreds of rigs and participants join the event. It was by far the biggest gathering of 4x4 in the country. The massive convoy drove approximately 200 kilometers from Manila via the scenic west coastline of the Philippines to the campsite. Aside from the exciting off-road drive to their destination, adventure seekers and adrenaline junkies also got to enjoy the beautiful and clean natural surroundings, with a number of them going on a 5-kilometer trek to the crater.