Just my 2 centavos worth, but driving around here in the Philippines can sometimes be chaotic and dangerous.
I've not yet taken the plunge to buy my own car, preferring to use jeep (if I'm on my own) or otherwise use taxi.
I can only say that's my view for Mindanao
I may have a different outlook when we return to Manila.
Doing the cost/benefit analysis of car ownership here in Mindanao just doesn't get anywhere near being either practical or financially sound.
It may be a different story once you live outside the City zone though.
Food for thought.