Columbian Manufacturing Corporation (CMANC) may not be a familiar name, but it has been with commuters for many years. The company is a coachbuilder, which has manufactured bus bodies that have stood the test of time. At the 2024 Philippine International Motor Show, it is proudly showcasing what the Filipino is capable of.

Taking center stage at the CMANC booth is the Daewoo BS106. This model’s older derivatives continue to ply major city and provincial routes, and that is testament to the durability and the build quality of the locally made bus bodies. The BS106 is powered by a 285hp turbodiesel that complies with Euro 5 emissions standards.

Another example of Filipino craftsmanship is CMANC’s take on the modern jeepney. It still retains much of the traditional jeepney’s shape, but the cabin is spacious enough for forward-facing seats or sideways-facing benches. Under the hood is a 2.8-liter turbodiesel with 107hp, and the vehicle can be ordered with air-conditioning from the factory.

Aside from public transportation, CMANC is also dipping its toes into rear bodies for trucks. The customizable Smartbody is offered as a cost-effective solution for small to medium businesses and other commercial applications. It makes use of a Kia K4000G six-wheeler platform.