Aftermath of the Second EB of the Strada Club of the Philippines

[moxxxs]

AFTERMATH: 26 JANUARY 2008 STRADA TT EBJan 28, '08 5:24 AM
by RBD for everyone
[SIZE=3]by moxxxs[/SIZE]

[SIZE=3]The 2nd STRADA EB was held in the vicinity of the Ortigas Home Depot, particularly in BBQ Boy/Chops area. It was supposed to start around 4PM but most of the guys met earlier at Big Bert’s/BrightMaster to have their rides washed/waxed in preparation for the eb. Av8or5, moxxxs, pauland, mikko_018, ThePatriarch, and eslonblue with his Pajero, convened at the car wash. Eslonblue’s Strada is yet to be delivered to him on February as the 2007 batch of Stradas were already sold out according to MMPC. The group inspected ThePatriarch’s mods, particularly his new leather seat cover and leather wrapped steering wheel, which were all tastefully done by SeatMate. Around 4:30 p.m. we proceeded to the venue. [/SIZE]

[SIZE=3]The early birds initially parked their Stradas at the side of the Ortigas Home Depot and in front of BBQ Boy/Chops. They were later joined by Boybit and his daughter, then Mehealator with Sir Fernan. The guys inspected Boybit’s ride which contained numerous mods, one of which is the booming subwoofer he installed at the back of the second row seats. The subwoofer and its ported box fit snuggly at the back of the seat. It produced a high quality sound together with the two-way Infinity separates installed at the front and a single DIN Pioneer HU. When asked as to who installed his audio set-up, Boybit answered that it was all DIY. Galing![/SIZE]

[SIZE=3]When Mehealator arrived, we were all in awe. We all knew that a roller up cover for the Strada’s bed was next to impossible/not yet available in the market. But Mehealator’s Strada proved us all wrong. It came with a roller up cover and a roll bar. We were all impressed as the guys inspected every nook and cranny of the set-up. Gold Cars Banawe custom fitted the roll-up for Mehealator’s Strada to perfectly fit the roll bar previously installed by Carryboy. Nice! [/SIZE]

[SIZE=3]Then came our beloved moderator from tsikot.com, Sir Drey. He ogled at the site of the Stradas lined up beside each other. He showed us the tsikot.com stickers. Those with moolah to spend bought the stickers, others, maybe next time. Soon, ooba99, our most respected member, came and joined the group with his silver 3.2 GLS S. Finally, we got a glimpse of his Strada since he was not able to bring it during the last eb.[/SIZE]

[SIZE=3]The group had their first set of photo ops at the parking lot in front of Jay-J’s. We came prepared this time as both mehealator and pauland volunteered to bring their DSLRs. By the looks of our photos, I bet these guys are pros. During the said picture taking, Mr. Icasiano of Diamond Motors Valle Verde dropped by and offered their continuing support to the group. Apparently, they have been monitoring the Strada thread and decided to be part of our eb and other activities in the future. Lurker sphinx1228 also dropped by and saw the line-up of the Stradas. I bet he is now convinced to get one rather than getting a Navara. We were later joined in the photo ops by lightyear and docglen. The two red stradas arrived almost simultaneously before dark. Lightyear brought his brand new strada to know more about the turbo timer. Unfortunately, his strada doesn’t have one since it belonged to the recent batch without a turbo-timer. We advised him though that the module for the turbo timer and other features can be installed free of charge at Winterpine in Araneta Ave. Of course, who would forget docglen and his red strada riding loftily in its American Racing chrome rims with huge Mickey Thompson mud tires. [/SIZE]

[SIZE=3]The group went back to BBQ Boy after the photo ops and formally discussed the agenda for the eb. Due to the lack of wi-fi connection at the venue, we were not able to provide a simultaneous virtual eb for those who were not able to attend but are on-line at that moment. Attendance sheet and Info sheets were distributed to all those present. Ale828 arrived just in time with his trusted Silver Strada. Club Officers were nominated and elected while the SEC registration was discussed but not yet implemented due to insufficient number of members and funds. Av8or5 was elected President, yours trully was elected VP-internal, ThePatriarch was elected VP-external and ex-officio Treasurer, Pauland was elected as Secretary. [/SIZE][SIZE=3]The group also brainstormed as to how the group will be aptly named. For now, they all agreed to call it The Strada Club of the Philippines. Numerous suggestions for the future of the club as well as suggested future activities were also discussed over buckets and buckets of SML with Bicol Express and Sisig as appetizer (c/o ThePatriarch and ooba99).[/SIZE]

[SIZE=3]The group decided to have a second set of photo ops at the parking lot in front of the home depot and bbq boy. Katrina Halili passed by and moved her white Toyota Fortuner, which was blocking the line up of Stradas. Unfortunately, we all got tongue tied and failed to ask her if she would like to join our photo ops. Too bad. Maybe next time.[/SIZE]

[SIZE=3]Afterwards, the group decided to finish the remaining booze and called it a night. Last to leave the venue were ThePatriarch, ooba99, mikko_018, drey and moxxxs. The EB lasted for almost seven (7) hours as the number of attendees doubled. [/SIZE]

[SIZE=3]To the BOSB, until the next gathering.[/SIZE]

[ianmitsulancer]

The club's definition of EVOLUTION works best in deeds as well as in words. The article Endless Possibilities: The Start of Something Big is a testimony that the Spirit of Brotherhood works and it's fun as well! Go the the link below to read all about it as this supplements moxxxs' Aftermath article.

http://stradaph.multiply.com/journal

drive inspired, ianmitsulancer

[moxxxs]

Guys, those who have pictures of the 2nd eb pa post na rin po dito. thanks.

[av8or5]

[av8or5]

[moxxxs]

thanks rally....sarap ng may sariling bahay ang BOSB's....hehehehe.
bait talaga ng mga taga tsikot.com

[ThePatriarch]

The club's definition of EVOLUTION works best in deeds as well as in words. The article Endless Possibilities: The Start of Something Big is a testimony that the Spirit of Brotherhood works and it's fun as well! Go the the link below to read all about it as this supplements moxxxs' Aftermath article.

http://stradaph.multiply.com/journal

drive inspired, ianmitsulancer

ianmitsulancer... post mo na rin dito yung article mo para mabasa rin nung mga wala access sa multiply (and dun sa mga tamad mag click nung link, hehe)

[ianmitsulancer]

Note: This article is the 3rd of the Aftermath Series.

Endless Possibilities: The Start of Something Big! 01/28/2008

By: ianmitsulancer, baguio city, philippines

Mitsubishi’s Pick-Up is gained popularity like the Dakar Legend Pajero. Mitsubishi fanatic Ianmitsulancer took some time to know the Strada and the people who are happy to drive and be with it as well.

The Mitsubishi Strada, the truck that blew the Philippines off its feet first in mid-1994 has captivated the hearts of current and converted pick-up fans from all walks of life. It was wholeheartedly accepted, and thus helped Mitsubishi turn itself back to profitability. The shift of its production line to Thailand back in 1996 proved to be an astute move. Some months back, it was noted that Strada/Triton exports from the Land of Smiles have reached a million-- making its sales charts and popularity levels close to its rival, the Toyota Hilux.

It was also the truck that gave the local market a series of firsts… like 2-tone body colors, an aggressive wheel package to trek up rough terrain like a horse, sassy Leather Interior, contoured Fender Flares, a brawny Turbocharged-Intercooler engine, Automatic Transmission availability, a protective bedliner, and an eye catching body to name a few. These factors from what was once fiction were larger than life to Mitsubishi Motors Philippines, Corp. as it has been the best selling 4x4 pick-up for 8 years whether it was imported from Japan, Thailand or locally assembled at Mitsubishi’s Tried and Tested Cainta, Rizal Manufacturing Facility.

The Tsikot forums had for a long time, established a thread for the truck’s 3rd Iteration that sparked interest amongst truck users and would be users as well. There were people who never though that a truck would be in their hands. The shape, that was sculpted by In-house Mitsubishi designer Akinori Nakanishi (finally, back to the hands of a Japanese!) understood that a 1-ton pickup truck was not only for commercial use, but that for carrying of passengers and their possessions in style. In other words, a Sport Utility Truck that was also fun to drive! Thus, the Strada (Internationally known as the Triton) was born. As the days passed from when it was launched in August 2005 in Bangkok, Thailand, the Strada drew renewed attraction by avid internet surfers and the hype initiated by the Media. The Philippine debut, held in Bonifacio Global City, Manila in September 2006, prevailed over the harsh Typhoon Milenyo. As these developments were coming about, it was not Mitsubishi who initiated a “first” but instead, a group of strangers with a common interest who have invested their hard earned gems to get one.

The thread was the avenue for these tsikoteers to express their enthusiasm for the truck, their intentions of getting one, the questions and clarifications they had. Through this forum, myths were dissolved; encouragement was abundant, affirmations and testimonials from owners were aplenty. The “cat out the bag” news that they finally purchased one and what accessories they have installed was a favorite thread. A sharing of their growing pains of ownership was also characteristic of the forum. All lead to countless happy truck users and organized EyeBalls (EBs). With the 1st successful EB that was held at Metrowalk, Manila Bay over Sisig and Beer last December 29, 2007, a lot of Strada Tsikoteers thought that love for the Truck is stronger, the second time around.

Last January 26, 2008, an agreed date for the 2nd EB took place at Chops/BBQ Boy, Ortigas Home Depot, Julia Vargas corner Meralco Avenues, Ortigas Center, Pasig City. Everyone had equal attention. But of course, knowing these Strada Tsikoteers (ST) is best as they emerged from the hustle and bustle of Metro Manila:

Av8or5, being a bit lazy to wash his truck on his own and in a messy state for a week, was tagged as the 7th car to be washed as he arrived at Big Bert’s, a popular detailing shop and stayed on queue. He actually joined the EB while his Silver Strada GLX was being washed and later picked it up for posterity.

The main attraction of Moxxxs’ Red Strada GLS was the motorized truckbed cover- something that Carryboy has pioneered, a body decal at the back and his new spitfire headlamp bulb that gave a unique glare during the photo shoot. Instead of joining av8or5 at Big Bert’s, he had his own suki not too far from it.

Pauland’s truck was a case of mistaken identity; right after his purchase of a Silver Strada GLX he was able to purchase a set of GLS Sport Magwheels and Fender Flares- the most obvious features that differentiate a GLS Sport from a GLX. He was also riding with the queue at Big Bert’s for a carwash. He was also kind enough to sport his laptop in his relentless pursuit of searching for wireless networks.

Mikko_018 may not have his Strada as it was being used by his family in Umingan, Pangasinan. He was initially skeptical about joining the EB as he feels that dealing with adults talking about technical details of the truck. Av8or5 and I have encouraged him to still join in as he can learn something new on how to customize his truck and have fun as well.

Chrome and Leather were Thepatriarch’s order of the day. His black shiny GLX Strada has been graced with unique chrome trimmings at the door handle to complement the consistency of the Front Grille Trimmings as well. Fender flares were added to enhance the overall appearance. Pseudo Leather Seat Covers and a Genuine Leather steering cover sent not only av8or5 bright-eyed and dreamy to acquire something similar, but his wife back home were all praises with it as well.

What we thought was a Strada would be the sixth arrive at Chops/BBQ Boy was actually a Pajero! Eslonblue, will probably be the first Strada Tsikoteer to lay possession on the 2008 Edition Strada- fresh from the Port of Batangas. It has been reported that minor enhancements have been added to be more competitive in the local market- as well as recruit more members like him.

Like Pauland, Boybit’s Silver Strada GLX was also another case of mistaken identity. Aside from adding the basic features of a Strada GLS like fender flares and 16” mags, he went several miles ahead to feast his truck with a canopy, a 2din audio visual unit with 1din head unit that served as his controller to the full range speaker and a subwoofer which had a perfect fit at the rear back seat. A fabricated cargo box that has been an interesting discussion at the thread and goodies added are the Hood Guard, Body Side Graphics, Rear Camera to aide in reversing, Rear Sensors, and Body Cladding. Amen.
Ooba99’s GLS Sport may not be clad with accessories as he ponders what brilliant piece of equipment he will think of installing in the future. As simple as it is, the Strada, especially in Striking Silver has been my favorite and the favorite color ordered by Strada buyers. A few months ago, he documented an out of town trip with his prized possession with fellow Strada Tsikotters, aside from the usual praising, are asking for more pictures… off road this time.

But what may attract Ooba99’s thoughts was the Roll Up Bed Cover found installed on Mehealator’s Strada GLS. Initally found to be a challenge as discussed at the thread because of the curved pick-up bed that sets it apart from the competition. This accessory alone was strongly considered to make eyes wide open and probably jaws drop in awe! Other add-ons were Roll Bars that confide the storage box of the Roll Up bed cover and an eye catching hood deflector.

.A New Strada GLS appeared and joined the roster. Lightyear’s truck did not have the LTO plate yet that joined the roster of Stradas in a muscular perspective. But warmly welcomed though as its identity can be seen at the Conduction Sticker. Perhaps this is where the Strada Tsikoteers’ efforts have paid off. The convincing powers was good enough to make a Strada roll of the showroom on a frequent basis. Indeed, Experience is the best teacher.

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[ianmitsulancer]

Another surprise was Docglen’s Strada GLS that screamed Almighty with a capital A! A fantastic package of Mickey Thompson Tires and American Racing Mags dwarfed the standard Original Equipment by the Manufacturer (OEM) 16” tire and rim package. It was noted that days after the EB, a proposed logo with the Divine Intervention of Photoshop was made with this truck on it. It left everyone intrigued to where he got his Strada’s shoes.

The Strada GL may the entry-level in the current line-up- but not for Ale828. A Silver Knight in shining armor, it has been inducted to the fleet of Strada Brothers surprisingly with Foglamps, Step Board, A bedliner and Pajero Inspired Mitsubishi Ralliart 16” rims and tires. The Strada GL should not be underestimated since it is the only one in its class with a 4x4 inspired 2.5 Turbo Intercooler Commonrail Direct Injection- capable to rescuing a damsel in distress ahead of time.

Aside from the surprises seen on the trucks today, The Band-of-Strada-Brothers got a surprise visit from the Leading Dealer-Mitsubishi Valle Verde. Mr. Icasiano (VP-Branch Operations) was there to declare the Age of Enlightenment especially with the core reason why the EB has been proposed: the Turbo Timer- also a much talked about topic in the forum. As well as Sales, Parts and Service Practices.

Tsikot Moderator Drey who was wondering around looking for the Strada Tsikoteers made it just in time to represent the forum that started it all. Also, he showed some Tsikot merchandise worth getting and to answer questions the Brothers had in terms of forum management.

After finally moving from one place to another, the Strada Tsikoteers finally got what they were waiting for: Two episodes of photoshoots by Pauland and Mehealator for other who can’t come will enjoy as well- the living proof that can be posted instead of vandalizing on the walls: “Strada Tsikoteers were here! We shall meet again!” as the meeting was about to take place, Katrina Halili, a Goddess in her own right made the Strada Tsikoteers thank the Heavens as they have longed for one. With everyone tongue twisted, she left- in an otherwise sinful Toyota Fortuner, but it didn’t take long for the Brothers to come to their senses.

Pauland, who tried to look for a wireless connection to let others join as well. I was identified as Ianmitsulancer from Baguio and DonT who was entouraged with a Strada back here, now based in Saudi Arabia with an office-issued Strada also failed to see Pauland online, but the wireless signal at the Ortigas Business District was not as generous as some thought would be. Instead, DonT and Ianmitsulancer exchanged ideas as well as others joined other such as Numbah5 who was in EDSA Shangri-La during the EB. I convinced him to join the EB but he couldn’t resist his commitment made earlier with his family. He is noted to be a Strada Tsikoteer and one of the owners of the first batches of the Strada GLS.

Events moved up quickly as the line-up of officers have been elected. Av8or5 as the President, Moxxs as the Vice President- Internal, Thepatriarch as the Vice President-External and Treasurer and Pauland as the Secretary. The club formation talks have started with its legalities have been explained on how to establish it on Black and White. With the Legal Expertise of some of the Brothers, the Club is starting to be a reality from this moment on with Sisig, Bicol Express and Beer on the side. From an EB started at 4:00pm proved to be the long as everyone enjoyed the spirit of Brotherhood with the Strada as it lasted until 11:00pm.

As Frank Sinatra sang The best is yet to come, the Strada Tsikoteers have every reason to be active. The EB made a ripple effect with a Deep Impact on the threads a few hours after the last Brother stepped out of the meeting place. To this day, the club is forming attracting more Strada users and recognition from other clubs and threads. Endless Possibilities may have been the tag line of the Mitsubishi Space Gear when it was launched some ten years ago, but this time, it can also apply with the Strada’s Tagline as well: It works, It’s fun! Eyeballs, Fun Runs, Photo Sessions may just be the beginning of something BIG! The Strada Club of the Philippines is the First Club by its own Tsikoteers. Now that’s what I know for sure!

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[ThePatriarch]

Thank you ian... galing talaga!