Philippine vehicle sales slipped 1 percent in the first 11 months of 2025, but industry leaders are betting on a strong December finish to push the market closer to record territory.
Data from the Chamber of Automotive Manufacturers of the Philippines, Inc. (CAMPI) and the Truck Manufacturers Association (TMA) showed total sales from January to November reached 420,776 units, down slightly from 425,208 units a year earlier. The modest decline came despite resilient demand for commercial vehicles and a fast-rising appetite for electrified models.
November sales alone totaled 37,352 units, down 6.7 percent year on year and 8.7 percent from October, reflecting softer consumer purchases ahead of the traditional yearend buying surge.
Still, CAMPI has reiterated its goal of breaking the 500,000-unit milestone for full-year 2025, banking on December promotions and improved supply.
Commercial vehicles continued to anchor the market, with sales rising 6.8 percent to 335,859 units in the 11-month period. The segment accounted for nearly 80 percent of total industry sales, underscoring sustained demand from logistics, construction, and small businesses. In November, commercial vehicles contributed 29,903 units.
Passenger cars, however, weighed on overall performance. Sales plunged 23 percent to 84,917 units from January to November, as higher borrowing costs and cautious consumer sentiment curbed big-ticket purchases. November passenger car sales stood at 7,456 units, supported mainly by fuel-efficient and entry-level offerings.
Electrified vehicles (xEVs) emerged as a bright spot. Year-to-date xEV sales hit 28,102 units, accounting for 6.7 percent of total industry volume. In November alone, xEVs made up more than 10 percent of sales, led by hybrid electric vehicles. Plug-in hybrid electric vehicles posted a sharp 216 percent month-on-month jump, signaling growing acceptance of advanced technologies.
“CAMPI remains confident in the industry’s upward trajectory,” said CAMPI president Rommel Gutierrez, citing broader model lineups, better supply, and continued support for sustainable mobility.
Toyota Motor Philippines retained its commanding lead with 205,552 units sold, followed by Mitsubishi Motors Philippines with 79,252 units. Ford, Suzuki, and Nissan rounded out the top five, setting the stage for an intensely competitive yearend sprint.
