Philippine automotive sales rebounded 21 percent in September as dealerships recovered from weather-related disruptions, but the monthly surge has yet to reverse the industry’s double-digit decline for the first nine months of 2026.
Sales reported by the Chamber of Automotive Manufacturers of the Philippines Inc. and the Truck Manufacturers Association (CAMPI-TMA) reached 35,722 units in September, up from August. However, cumulative sales fell 10.6% year on year to 307,060 units from January to September.
Including estimates for brands outside CAMPI-TMA, industry-wide sales topped 40,240 units in September, rising 17% month on month. The result marked the market’s third-highest monthly performance this year.
CAMPI President Jose Maria Atienza attributed September’s rebound to the resumption of dealership activity after adverse weather disrupted sales in previous months. He said the latest figures signaled a return to the industry’s recovery path.
Internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicle sales rose 19 percent in September, while sales of electrified vehicles (xEVs) increased 14 percent, Atienza said, pointing to growth across both segments.
He expressed confidence that momentum would carry into the remaining months of 2026, although the nine-month figures show the market still has substantial ground to recover.
Toyota Motor Philippines led CAMPI-TMA members in September with 18,157 units sold, followed by Mitsubishi Motors with 3,962 units. Suzuki ranked third with 1,466 units, ahead of Ford at 1,187 and Honda at 1,136.
The monthly rebound offers a boost to automakers heading into the final quarter, traditionally a critical period for year-end promotions and vehicle purchases. Still, stronger monthly sales alone may not be enough to offset the cumulative shortfall.
The fourth-quarter performance will be crucial in determining whether the industry can narrow its year-on-year decline and finish 2026 on firmer footing.
