PH auto sales bounce back in September after August slowdown

Overall vehicle sales in the Philippines rebounded in September following weather-related disruptions in August, a joint report by the Chamber of Automotive Manufacturers of the Philippines Inc. (CAMPI) and Truck Manufacturers Association (TMA) showed.

There were 35,722 units sold in September, up from 29,612 in August, but 5.8% lower than the 37,915 units sold a year ago.

Commercial vehicles accounted for 78.17% of sales, or 27,923 units, for the month: 6,518 Asian utility vehicles; 20,553 light commercial vehicles; 489 light-duty trucks and buses; 293 medium-duty trucks and buses; and 70 heavy-duty trucks and buses.

The remaining 7,799 units, translating to 21.83% of sales, were passenger cars.

There were 8,959 units of electric vehicles sold in September, up from 7,073 in August — 3,075 battery; 1,951 plug-in hybrid; and 3,933 hybrid. Sales of internal combustion engine (ICE) units likewise increased 14%.

“This continued growth across both segments reflects healthy consumer demand and reinforces our confidence in the market,” CAMPI president Jose Maria Atienza said in an emailed statement.

“Based on annual sales trends heading into the final months of the year, we believe the industry is well-positioned to sustain its momentum and deliver a strong overall performance in 2026,” he added.

Toyota Motor Philippines Corp. (TMP) continued to have the biggest market share in September with 18,157 units, followed by Mitsubishi Motors Philippines Corp. (MMPC) with 3,962 units, Suzuki Philippines Inc. (SPI) with 1,466 units, Ford Group Philippines Inc. (FGP) with 1,187 units, and Honda Cars Philippines Inc. (HCPI) with 1,136 units. —VAL, GMA News