Norminring opens its second Ducati showroom in Mindanao

ARE WE witnessing a shift of balance of power from Manila to Mindanao? We are not suggesting anything political—that’s certainly off-limits to us motorcycle journalists. But rather, we are referring to the increasing demand for big bikes— particularly from exotic, premium brands—in Mindanao.

We are not surprised that motorcycle dealerships in Mindanao get priority allocation of newly launched products over dealerships located in ‘Imperial Manila.’ The most recent company to reinforce its strategic marketing position in Mindanao is Ducati dealer Norminring Development Corporation, the biggest multi-brand dealership network in the region. It opened another showroom for the iconic Italian motorcycle marque last Saturday, January 12, 2019. The event was attended by Mindanao’s prominent bigbike enthusiasts.

Toti Alberto, president and CEO of Access-Plus Ducati Philippines, and Jondi Lacson, Norminring Motorbike company’s top honcho, led the opening ceremony of the new facility located at Blk 1 lot 19, Masterson Avenue, Xavier Estates, Cagayan de Oro City. Toti Alberto flew in to CDO with his wife, Joy Cua Alberto (Access PlusDucati Philippines vice president), for the occasion.

The CDO dealership has a 90sqm standalone showroom for Ducati’s latest lineup that includes the MutiStrada 1260 super tourers, the Monster standard bikes, the Scrambler retro machine, the Diavel power cruiser, and of course, the Panigale V4 S super sport bike.

Ducati owners in this part of the country need not source their parts and maintenance requirements from the Ducati Philippines main showroom along Katipunan Avenue, Quezon City, anymore, as the CDO facility has allotted a 50sqm corner for the servicing of motorbikes. But even before the CDO showroom entered the picture, a Norminring Ducati dealership in Davao City had already been aggressive in pushing the brand in Region 11 and its neighboring areas.

The success of Norminring can be traced to Lacson’s deep passion for motorcycles, particularly when he led the formation of Mindanao Freedom Riders to promote southern Philippines as the new haven for big bikers. Topgear. com.ph