Motorcycle sales in the Philippines increased 3.58% in the first half of 2026, as consumers continued to look for lower-cost mobility options amid high fuel prices, according to an industry group.

The Motorcycle Development Program Participants Association (MDPPA) said sales reached 939,528 units in the six months to June, putting first-half volume within sight of the one-million-unit mark.

“Despite a more challenging market environment following an exceptionally strong first half in 2025, the industry maintained positive momentum, reflecting the continued importance of motorcycles as an essential mobility solution for Filipinos,” the group said in a statement on Monday.

Sales rose 11.6% year on year in the first quarter to 496,868 units. In the second quarter, however, sales fell 4.2% to 442,660 units, showing that the strong start to the year helped offset weaker demand in the following three months.

Automatic motorcycles accounted for the largest share of first-half sales, with 655,004 units sold, or nearly seven in every 10 units. They were followed by business motorcycles with 148,989 units, mopeds with 107,632 units, the street category with 24,346 units, big bikes with 2,994 units, and other categories with 563 units.

“While growth in the first half of 2026 was slower than the growth recorded during the same period in 2025, the industry continued to expand, demonstrating the enduring confidence of Filipino consumers in motorcycles as a practical, reliable, and cost-efficient mode of transportation,” MDPPA said.

Motorcycle sales had grown 4.8% in the first half of 2025.

“While market conditions have become more challenging compared with last year’s exceptionally strong performance, motorcycles continue to meet the everyday mobility needs of Filipinos,” MDPPA President Erwin D. Estrada said.

“The industry’s continued growth demonstrates that consumers recognize the value motorcycles provide through affordability, fuel efficiency, and dependable transportation for work, business, and daily life,” he added.

At the end of June, gasoline was priced at P70.93 per liter, while diesel and kerosene were priced at P71.21 and P62.56 per liter, respectively. Fuel costs remain a key backdrop for the market because motorcycles are being positioned by the industry as a more affordable and fuel-efficient option for commuting, work, and small business use.

The MDPPA said it remains optimistic that motorcycle sales will continue to grow steadily, supported by demand for affordable transportation options that can adjust to prevailing economic conditions. — Beatriz Marie D. Cruz