Toyota Motor Corp. is calling on the Philippine government to expand support for completely knocked-down (CKD) vehicle manufacturing across all technologies, saying the move will empower micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), deepen local production, attract investment, and secure jobs in the country’s automotive sector.
The appeal came during the Tokyo Business Roundtable, attended by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and leading Japanese business executives. Toyota reaffirmed its long-term commitment to the Philippines and to closer economic cooperation between Manila and Tokyo.
Speaking at the forum, Toyota Asia Region CEO Masahiko Maeda stressed the strategic importance of maintaining and expanding CKD operations in the Philippines amid shifting global supply chains.
“We encourage the government to promote CKD-based local manufacturing across all technologies. This will help MSMEs, strengthen local suppliers—including vehicle conversions—attract investment, and sustain employment,” Maeda said.
Toyota Motor Philippines currently leads the country’s local automotive production with models like the Vios, Innova, and Tamaraw. The Tamaraw, a commercial vehicle, is specifically aimed at supporting MSMEs and modernizing public transport.
The company also highlighted Toyota Aisin Philippines, Inc., which has exported over $3.8 billion in manual transmissions to markets across Asia, Africa, and Latin America, showcasing the Philippines’ growing role in global automotive supply chains.
In addition, Toyota advocated for biofuel adoption under the Asian Zero Emission Community framework, noting that blends such as E20 and B5 can promote cleaner mobility while supporting the agricultural sector.
