Cars used by past Philippine presidents on display at Museo ng Pampangulong Sasakyan in Quezon Memorial Circle

Ever wondered what cars the Philippine presidents used during their terms? Well, you may now see them up close at Museo ng Pampangulong Sasakyan in Quezon Memorial Circle.

According to Kuya Kim’s report on “24 Oras” on Tuesday, the museum displays 12 vehicles used by the country’s 13 former chief executives.

The collection includes the Packard Custom Super 8 180 Limousine used by former Presidents Sergio Osmeña and Jose P. Laurel. Because World War II just ended when Osmeña started his term, he didn’t prioritize buying a new car.

Visitors will also get to view the 1959 Cadillac Deville, which is similar to what past President Diosdado Macapagal used, and the 1980 Lincoln Continental Mark VI Signature Series from former President Ferdinand Marcos Sr.’s term.

Past President Joseph “Erap” Estrada’s car is also there. Its doors are made of steel plates and kevlar, which are often used to make bulletproof vests.

The 1937 Chrysler Airflow Custom CW used by former President Manuel Quezon, meanwhile, is considered special because it was the only one in the Philippines during his time.

According to NHCP Presidential Car Museum’s senior curator Ismael Magallanes, these cars were under the care of the families of the former presidents until these were donated to them.

“May mga makina pa po ito sa loob pero hindi na po ito pinapatakbo [The car engines are still intact but are no longer run],” he said.

Presidents of the Republic of the Philippines are the only ones allowed to use the “1” plate number. – Franchesca Viernes/RC, GMA News