Motorcycle sales climb 11.6% in Q1

Motorcycle sales in the Philippines rose 11.6 percent in the first quarter of 2026, as commuters and businesses continued to turn to two-wheel transport amid rising fuel costs and mobility challenges.

The Motorcycle Development Program Participants Association, Inc. said its member brands sold 496,868 units from January to March, up from 445,047 units in the same period in 2025.

The report covered unit sales by MDPPA member brands Honda, Kawasaki, Suzuki and Yamaha during the period.

Sales improved year on year in all three months of the quarter.

January sales reached 166,703 units, 7.8 percent higher than the 154,621 units sold in January 2025.

February sales rose 7.1 percent to 151,608 units from 141,514 units a year earlier.

March delivered the strongest monthly performance with 178,557 units sold, up 19.9 percent from 148,912 units in March 2025.

Automatic motorcycles continued to dominate the market, supported by their ease of use and suitability for daily commuting.

MDPPA said the automatic motorcycle category posted strong gains across all three months, reflecting its sustained appeal among Filipino riders.

Business motorcycles also recorded significant growth, driven by delivery services and small enterprises that rely on motorcycles for daily operations.

Other segments, including mopeds and street motorcycles, posted mixed results, but the overall industry performance remained positive on broad-based demand across categories.

Industry analysts cited affordability, fuel efficiency and the ability to move through congested roads as key factors behind sustained motorcycle demand.

Motorcycles also continue to support livelihoods, particularly in the gig economy and logistics sector, where riders and small businesses depend on lower-cost mobility.

The growth came as fuel prices remained volatile.

In March, the Department of Energy imposed temporary fuel price caps after warning oil companies and retail stations against unauthorized price hikes amid global market volatility. The caps covered gasoline, diesel, diesel plus and kerosene from March 6 to March 9. (Philippine Information Agency)

The Philippine Information Agency, citing the DOE, said the March 6–9 caps ranged from PHP 49 to PHP 64.70 per liter for gasoline RON 91, PHP 50 to PHP 71.04 per liter for gasoline RON 95, PHP 53.70 to PHP 76.50 per liter for gasoline RON 97/100, PHP 49 to PHP 66.59 per liter for diesel, PHP 56.80 to PHP 74.81 per liter for diesel plus, and PHP 78.90 to PHP 99.89 per liter for kerosene. (Philippine Information Agency)

MDPPA said the industry’s first-quarter performance underscored the role of motorcycles as practical and cost-efficient alternatives to larger vehicles during periods of high fuel prices.

The group said motorcycles offer better fuel consumption and lower operating costs for individuals and businesses seeking to manage expenses while staying mobile.

The 11.6 percent growth also reflected resilient consumer demand and the broader transportation needs of Filipinos.

“As fuel prices continue to rise, motorcycles remain a viable option for Filipinos looking to manage their daily commute and expenses. For many, it offers a fuel efficient and cost-conscious option that still allows them to move freely, get to work on time, and keep their livelihoods running,” said Erwin Estrada, MDPPA President. “In the months ahead, this shift is likely to become even more pronounced as riders look for reliable ways to stay mobile despite increasing costs.”

MDPPA said more Filipinos are expected to turn to motorcycles for daily travel and income generation as fuel costs remain volatile.

The group said sustained interest is likely to support industry growth in the months ahead and reinforce the motorcycle sector’s role in mobility and economic activity.

MDPPA describes itself as a motorcycle industry association that responds to stakeholder needs in the Philippines.

Its members include Honda, Kawasaki, Suzuki and Yamaha.

The association said its goals include addressing global industry gaps in road safety, regulation compliance, environmental protection, technology and innovation through consultation, representation and communication with stakeholders.

One of its recent initiatives is the Tropang MAALAM campaign, which stands for Tropang Modelo, Alerto, Aktibo, Ligtas, Aalalay, at Matalino.

The campaign promotes rider safety through education, awareness and training.