Manila Times motoring editor Dino Directo, 51

The Philippine automotive journalism scene mourns the passing of Dino Ray Directo III.

He served as the motoring editor for The Manila Times’ Fast Times section. The 51-year-old Directo was remembered as a cheerful colleague who always cracks jokes every time he could. A confident, affable man, he was ready to bridge connections with friends from the industry. 

Started his writing career as a beat shipping reporter for Manila Chronicle, then Manila Standard and lastly, at The Manila Times. He was also the editor-at-large for the magazine Autocar Philippines. 

A friend for 20 years, Wheel Gallery President and Chief Executive Officer Samuel Liuson shared that Directo is a "very loyal friend who will fight for you in times of trouble." 

"There’s no dull moment with him. Basta kasama mo sya, halakhak lagi (when you're with him, you will always laugh heartily)," Liuson added. 

Meanwhile, Carbay Philippines Vice President for Corporate Business Jeff Reyes noted that his long-time friend Directo is a foodie who also "loves toy cars, die-cast scale models, and everything Marvel and Star Wars. He also has fascination for war toys like tanks, trucks and soldiers as part of his collection." 

In his Facebook account, Directo described himself as “Manunulat na mahilig sa kotse, Seiko at tauhan ni Hesus Kristo” (writer who is fond of cars and Seiko, and is a believer of Jesus Christ).

Directo is survived by his wife Lorna and daughter Bea.

Photos from Bea Directo’s Facebook