WITH VEHICULAR traffic not waning, and transport network vehicles too scarce and pricey — aggravated by the continuously rising fuel pump prices, commuters have shunned the idea of driving cars to work.
Their alternative mode of mobility — motorcycle.
Citing research-driven data, the Motorcycle Development Program Participants Association (MDPPA) hinted at an increase in motorcycle sales in the first semester of 2026.
According to the MDPPA, 9,39,528 units were sold from January to June of the current year, adding that the momentum is expected to continue in view of weekly fuel price increase with the re-escalated tension in the Middle East.
MDPPA RESEARCH
Motorcycle sales rose 3.58% in the first half, with buyers seeking cheaper mobility alternatives due to high fuel prices.
“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 association said on Monday.
In the first quarter, motorcycle sales rose 11.6% year on year to 496,868 units, while sales in the second quarter declined 4.2% to 442,660 units, reported Business World.
Automatic motorcycles posted first-half sales of 655,004 units. Far behind at the second place are business motorcycles (148,989 units); mopeds (107,632 units), the street category (24,346 units); big bikes (2,994 units), and other categories (563 units).
“While growth in the first half of 2026 was slower than the growth recorded during the same period in 2025 (when it grew 4.8%), 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.
BEST ALTERNATIVE
“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.
As of this writing, the price of gasoline has gone up to P77 per liter, while diesel is pegged at P92 per liter. Kerosene fetched P71.21 and P62.56, respectively.
The group said it remains optimistic that motorcycle sales will grow steadily, driven by the need for affordable transport solutions that can adapt to prevailing economic conditions, Business World added.