In this article, one of our writers shot down the argument against Executive Order 156, which basically outlaws the importation of used vehicles. But the same writer also suggested that instead of sending these cars to the crusher, auctioning them off could give the country some much-needed funds especially now that we’re in a recession.

It seems like the powers that be have somehow heeded the advice as Land Bank of the Philippines has recently put out a notice to bid on what it calls “luxury motor vehicles.” The state-owned bank has partnered with the Bureau of Customs and the Bureau of Treasury for this public auction.

As for what Land Bank classifies as luxury vehicles, that’s not really the case. The following cars will be auctioned off:

• 2001 Porsche Boxster
• 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK350
• 2008 Ferrari 430 Scuderia
• 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK55 AMG
• 2011 Mercedes-Benz E220 CDI
• 2002 Toyota MR-S (right-hand drive, two units)

You can view the floor prices and other information here. From what we can see, the European cars seem to be in good nick. But the two Toyota convertibles are missing various parts. We think these will be used as donor vehicles for project cars.

If you’re interested in any of these cars, the auction will be held at 10am on December 13, at the Auction Room of the Bureau of Treasury, Ayuntamiento Building, Intramuros, Manila.