The launch of the Treo 750 started a while ago, around lunchtime, over at the Embassy Super Club.

The press of course got first dibs, listening to Palm executives based in Singapore, and trying out the demo units. The Windows Mobile smartphone will retail for Php 39,990.00 by the way.

As I write this, it’s a few minutes away from the arrival of the second group for the day: the resellers and the telco representatives. Later this evening, it’ll be an open bar for invited end-users, as DJ Caliph8 mixes the sounds.

What’s interesting to consider is that Palm greatly values its presence in the Philippines. I can’t be more specific, but local sales of the Treo 680 (which was launched last year) were very good. And the executives can’t wait to see how well the 750 will do.

And would you believe, at least in the Asia-Pacific region, Palm uses collaterals and giveaways produced here when marketing their products in other countries?

Take the 680 launch for instance. Palm wanted to highlight the Treo’s so-called film debut on A Good Year, and they wanted give away picnic packs (a cream knapsack with the Palm logo and the movie’s title embroidered on it, containing utensils, plastics glasses and plates) for marketing. Not only here, but in nearby countries for their own product launches.

A local supplier was commissioned to produce the said items. The finished product impressed the executives, so much so that they eagerly had it distributed throughout the Asia-Pacific. And even had more made.

Thus we have an interesting mix: a country where the passion for gadgets makes it a favorite of a major manufacturer (I’m sure Nokia also loves us), and quality craftsmanship that is easily world-class.

(Photos by Sasha Manuel and Mark Bustamante respectively)