A wish fulfilled: How the GAC Emzoom became a symbol of strength and resilience for one Filipino couple

Photo shows new Emzoom owner CK Madaraog with Elmer Argaño (6th and 7th from the left) with executives from Astara Philippines led by GAC Motor Philippines Brand Head Franz Decloedt) and GAC Motor Brand Ambassador Dingdong Dantes (4th and 5th from the left), Astara Philippines Marketing Director Timmy de Leon (2nd from the left), with representatives of GAC Motor International, and the sales team of GAC Motor BGC dealership. (Photo courtesy of Astara Philippines)

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For Carla Kristel “CK” Madaraog, the GAC Emzoom wasn’t just a car—it was a promise of hope, strength, and a celebration of life.

Earlier this year,  CK faced one of the toughest challenges of her life. Hospitalized in March, her condition worsened unexpectedly, leaving her and her fiancé, Elmer Argaño, grappling with uncertainty. During their long hours at the hospital, a glimpse out of her window offered a surprising source of inspiration. A vibrant billboard of the GAC Emzoom featuring GAC MOTOR brand ambassador Dingdong Dantes caught Madaraog’s eye, sparking a lighthearted yet meaningful conversation.

“We promised ourselves we’d overcome this challenge together,” Madaraog shared. “Seeing that billboard, we joked that it wasn’t my time to go yet—I still had to drive my dream Emzoom!”

Madaraog had been eyeing the GAC Emzoom for months, drawn to its sleek design and adaptability. For her, it symbolized freedom, resilience, and the life adventures still to come.

As her condition improved, Elmer rallied their family and friends, along with a surprising ally: Dingdong Dantes himself. Learning about Madaraog’s situation and her connection to the Emzoom, Dantes offered heartfelt support. He promised to personally celebrate Madaraog’s recovery with her when the time came to make her dream a reality.

A Wedding, Recovery, and the Ultimate Celebration
Just before a critical procedure, the couple held an intimate wedding at the hospital. Among their guests was Dantes, a proud sponsor of the couple’s union. With the unwavering love of her new husband and the strength of her community, Madaraog overcame her health challenges and embraced her new life with boundless gratitude.  

Months later, Madaraog’s dream of owning the GAC Emzoom finally came true. At a special turnover ceremony with her husband and Dantes by her side, she was handed the keys to a Salt Lake Blue Emzoom—a perfect match for her vision. The moment marked not just the acquisition of a car but the culmination of a journey defined by resilience, love, and unyielding faith.

“This car is more than just a vehicle to me,” Madaraog said with a beaming smile. “It’s a symbol of hope and strength. I’m excited for the adventures ahead, surrounded by love and blessings.”

A Story that Resonates
Madaraog’s journey struck a chord with Franz Decloedt, Brand Head of GAC Motor Philippines. “We were deeply moved by CK’s story and proud of the fact that the GAC Emzoom played a role in her celebration of life,” Decloedt said. “It’s a testament to the positive impact of our brand and the growing Filipino Emzoom community.”

Since its launch in June 2023, the GAC Emzoom has captured the hearts of Filipino families and entrepreneurs alike, surpassing 2,500 units sold in the Philippines. Its versatility, sleek design, and performance have made it a favorite among Filipinos navigating both city streets and scenic countryside routes.

The GAC Emzoom’s success is bolstered by its robust features, including a 1.5 TGDI engine paired with a 7-speed wet dual-clutch transmission, delivering 177 PS and 270 Nm of torque. As the first GAC model to achieve a 5-star ASEAN NCAP safety rating, the Emzoom represents GAC Motor’s commitment to innovation, quality, and customer satisfaction.

Building on the Emzoom’s momentum, GAC Motor recently introduced the Emzoom Touring, a sportier variant offering R-Style-inspired design at a more accessible price point. With 32 selling dealerships nationwide, comprised of permanent and interim retail facilities, including appointments, across Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao, GAC Motor continues to expand its reach and touch more lives across the Philippines.

For Madaraog, the Emzoom is much more than its features. It’s a daily reminder of her resilience, the love of those around her, and the bright future ahead. “This is my dream car,” she said, “and it’s a symbol that no matter how tough life gets, we can always find reasons to celebrate.”

To learn more about GAC Motor and its diverse vehicle lineup, visit the official website at www.gacmotorph.com. Stay updated on the latest news and promotions by following GAC Motor Philippines on Facebook and Instagram (@gacmotorph). You can also visit your nearest dealership to experience the brand’s exceptional offerings firsthand.