The four-day event combined the presentation at the Sofitel Philippine Plaza and the ride-and-drive at the Mall of Asia grounds. There, participants had a hands-on experience of the Mercedes-Benz ‘Guard’ vehicles’ handling — also in comparison with the equivalent standard-production vehicles. Special instructors and key executives from Mercedes-Benz Guard in Germany conducted the workshop.

Demand for special-protection vehicles is rising and is currently very high in Latin America, South Africa, Russia and southern Europe.

About 80 years ago, Mercedes-Benz built the first ex-factory special protection vehicle — the 770 K "Nuerburg" model. Japanese Emperor Hirohito was among the first who relied on special protection vehicles made by Mercedes-Benz.

Since then, numerous special-protection models have been developed, ranging from the legendary Mercedes-Benz 600 to the 450 SEL and G-Class off-roader.

The latest addition to that tradition is the Mercedes-Benz S 600 Guard. Thanks to its factory-integrated protective features, the vehicle provides a unique level of protection against attacks and threats posed by violence.

Because Mercedes-Benz ‘Guard’ vehicles have protective elements that are already integrated into the bodyshell, they not only offer extreme protection, they are also inconspicuous in everyday life. Nobody actually sees the hard core of protection that lies within.

Dr. Rainer Thiel, president and CEO DaimlerChrysler South East Asia said: "We are proud to have the opportunity to demonstrate our ‘Guard’ vehicles here in the Philippines.

The Philippines is a growing market for our Mercedes-Benz vehicles."

Felix Ang, president of CATS Motors said: "We are pleased that DaimlerChrysler has chosen the Philippines as the venue to showcase these exceptional vehicles. Heads of state, royalties, high-level diplomats, top executives, and senior business figures all over the world appreciate being able to travel incognito in vehicles that do not betray their special status because for them discretion is the best form of protection. And for years, they have been confident that the Mercedes-Benz ‘Guard’ vehicle combines the highest standard of safety and security as well as the quality and comfort that these vehicles are known for."