AN Internet forum gave birth to the Toyota Auto Club Phils. (TACP).

TACP President Francis Samonte—one of the pioneers that formed the club—said that the SEC-registered, non-profit organization is quite a family-oriented group, and that the primary purpose for its existence is to establish an association of Toyota owners who are interested in the preservation and enjoyment of their vehicles.

He recalled that their group started some 11 years ago on a web page.

“It all began in 2001 at the old kotse.com forum,” Samonte said. “A group of online friends decided to establish an organization where they could gather people similarly in love with the Toyota brand, and where they could have an avenue to help one another in keeping their cars in tip-top shape.”

Samonte said that besides building camaraderie, the TACP is also created so its members could share their experiences with their vehicles and could be more efficient at spending time and money.

“TACP also aims to educate motorists about the benefits of proper vehicle maintenance,” Samonte said.

According to the club’s official mission statement, it also provides information to car owners free of charge, and seeks to protect a Toyota owner’s investment through the various information it gives out. This may help Toyota owners to improve vehicle safety and fuel economy, and preserve their cars while protecting the environment.

Besides Samonte, the club’s other officials are Francisco Gupit (vice chairman), Dennis Pambid (site administrator), Jimmy Virador (events manager), Dexter Ayco (marketing manager) and Robert Young (head moderator).

Claiming that the group is not about “quality and not the quantity of members,” Samonte said that TACP presently counts 80 members and more than 1,000 online participants.

“To be a member, one must attend three assemblies, find a sponsor among the current members, and pass a panel interview. If we find that you are deserving to join, we accept you. It’s a tedious process but it’s worth it,” Samonte said.