Indonesian Diaspora in Philippines Proud of Prabowo Bringing Maung Garuda to Cebu

The presence of the Maung MV3 Garuda Limousine during Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto’s visit to Cebu, Philippines, to attend the 48th ASEAN Summit has drawn attention from the Indonesian diaspora residing there. Several Indonesian citizens who welcomed Prabowo at his hotel expressed pride that the vehicle, a product of the nation’s ingenuity, was brought along for this official state agenda abroad. Ronald Tasik, an Indonesian diaspora working as a doctor in Cebu, described the moment as a memorable experience. In addition to meeting the President in person, he felt proud seeing the Maung appear on the international stage. According to Ronald, Prabowo also appeared warm when greeting the Indonesian diaspora who came to welcome his arrival. Lili Yahya, an Indonesian citizen who has long settled in Cebu, shared similar sentiments. She admitted to being moved because it was the first time she could directly welcome the Indonesian President in that city. “Certainly proud, moved, and we are delighted with the arrival of Mr President. Because this is the first time, isn’t it, the President’s visit to Cebu, Philippines,” said Lili. Lili also assessed that the presence of the Maung in the President’s visit serves as a symbol of pride in national products. The Maung MV3 Garuda Limousine brought along is the latest variant from the Maung family developed by PT Pindad. This vehicle measures 5.05 metres in length, 2.06 metres in width, and 1.87 metres in height, with a weight of up to 2.95 tonnes. For its powertrain, the Maung Garuda is equipped with a 2,200 cc engine producing 199 horsepower, paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. Its top speed is claimed to reach 100 km per hour. Security aspects are also a primary focus. The body material uses composite armour capable of withstanding shots from 7.62 x 51 mm NATO and 5.56 x 45 mm M193 calibre ammunition. The Cabinet Secretariat stated that the use of the Maung in international forums is not merely as a means of transportation, but as a symbol of Indonesia’s national industrial independence and progress.