Written by Johann Elijah R. Dalit | May 4, 2026
Photographed by Edwin B. Romero
Driving a Community in SBCA Auto Fest
SBCA reignited its automotive spirit with the annual AutoFest, an event that went beyond engines and aesthetics to focus on what truly matters, community. Organized by the Bedan Entrepreneurs Society (BES), the SBCA AutoFest created an inclusive space where everyone felt welcome, whether they owned a car or simply shared an appreciation for automotive culture.
“This event is our way of saying that we are not insensitive; rather, it is a manifestation that, despite all odds, the organizing team has worked hard to push through with this event,” said Dr. Andres Ignacio San Mateo Jr., Dean of the School of Business, Accountancy, and Management, as he acknowledged the organizations that contributed to making the event possible, especially BES under the guidance of their moderator, Atty. Ryan Cancio, in light of the ongoing oil crisis.
Unlike other car-centered events, the SBCA AutoFest emphasized engagement and connection among members of the Bedan community. From stock vehicles to modified builds and even supercars, the diversity of showcased automobiles reflected the inclusive nature of the gathering. The organizers ensured that the event was not exclusive to car owners or those with high-end builds, but open to anyone who appreciated cars in any form.
By showcasing a wide variety of vehicles and inviting the entire Bedan community, including alumni who returned to their alma mater, the event strengthened connections across different people. More importantly, it brought together students from the Integrated Basic Education department, Tertiary Schools, and the School of Law, alongside faculty and staff, fostering a sense of unity that extended beyond academic boundaries.
Beyond the excitement, this year’s AutoFest carried a deeper purpose. The event was organized for a cause, with over 280 beneficiaries, BES was able to give accidental insurance worth P25,000 each for the Alabang Hills Village Tricycle Operators and Drivers' Association (AHV TODA), SBCA security guards, motor pools, general services department, and the varsities. “Pero pinaka highlight for this year is ‘yung Auto Fest is for a cause, as we aim to give back to TODAs in response to the fuel crisis,” said BES President John Emmanuel Sualog (IV-BSE).
In an interview with THE BEDAN HERALD, Carl Miguel Malic (II-BSP) shared his story on how his passion for cars ignited inside him. “My dad showed me around cars, this could be a good gift for him, and this car means a lot because I really love my dad,” said Malic when asked why they joined the Auto Fest with his 2014 Subaru BRZ.
Charles Esquivel, a non-Bedan participant and owner of a 2017 Isuzu D-MAX, expressed his thoughts about his car, saying it keeps him safe whenever he drives. He added that despite the scratches and bumps, it still brings him to his destination. “For me, it's not just a car, it's a daily project car that takes me from point A to point B without any problems,” said Esquivel.
With his Nissan 400Z, Michael Elijah Viray (III-BSLM) acknowledged the invitation of their professor, Atty. Cancio, to attend the event. He also added that his car represents the work that he put into obtaining the car. “‘Yung car kasi it means like parang hardwork din kasi syempre ‘di naman din birong bumili ng sasakyan eh,” said Viray.
More than just a display of cars, the SBCA AutoFest became a platform for bringing people together. With the help of the sponsors such as Toyota Alabang, Someday Coffee, and Lefty Kicks, the event pushed through despite the odds that the organizers encountered. Toyota Gazoo Racing also brought their Racing Simulator for the students to experience the adrenaline of driving on a race track.
Volume 31 | Issue 11
