The motorcycle industry continues to ride on its success in the Philippines, with a 21.2% sales increase, boosting sales numbers from 141,202 units in September last year to 171,155 units in the same month this year, according to the Motorcycle Development Program Participants Association (MDPPA). Adding to the impressive numbers, last year’s motorcycle sales totaled 1,239,258 units, and this year has surpassed that by 12.8%, coming in at almost 1.4 million units sold.
The aforementioned motorcycle sales numbers just go to show how viable an option motorcycles are these days. Starting from their small profile, even the bigger ones, they cut through Manila traffic like a knife through butter, making navigation of traffic-dense cities like Makati or BGC a breeze.
Combine that with their fuel efficiency and relatively low maintenance, and you have an option for Filipino households that need mobility but are either tight on funds or find anything on four wheels excessive.
According to the MDPPA’s marketing committee chairperson, Toni Boi Acuesta, here’s what he has to say about the matter: “Motorcycles remain a popular choice among Filipinos due to several key factors. They offer an affordable means of personal mobility, especially at a time when economic uncertainties have placed pressure on household budgets. Their fuel efficiency and low maintenance costs also make them ideal for daily use. Riders can also cut through traffic much more easily, allowing for quicker and more convenient travel.” And looking at the local motoring landscape, that statement couldn’t be any truer.
As for how many motorcycles are sold in each region, Luzon continues to account for the majority, with 95,712 sold — 56% of total sales; meanwhile, Visayas and Mindanao make up the other half, with 37,675 and 37,768, respectively. Nowadays, the local motorcycle landscape continues to grow, from the long-standing tricycles that roam the streets of big cities and small provinces to the growing popularity of motorcycle taxis, leaving everyday commuters spoiled for choice.
As of late, the MDPPA has remained optimistic about the future of motorcycles in the Philippines, and that confidence is well warranted. As cars get bigger and bigger, and city roads stay the same size, the daily commute might feel a bit asphyxiating with all the vehicles strewn about, and if ever you’re in the market to buy your own personal transport, but feel like a car is out of reach? Maybe think about ditching the other two wheels, since only two might be what you need.
