Auto sales grow 2.9% in February

Automotive vehicle sales in February saw a 2.9% increase, reaching 39,164 units compared to 38,072 in the same period last year, according to a joint report by the Chamber of Automotive Manufacturers Association of the Philippines, Inc. (CAMPI) and the Truck Manufacturers Association (TMA).

The commercial vehicle segment was the primary driver of this growth, posting a 9.1% increase in sales to 31,010 units, up from 28,434 in February 2024.

In contrast, passenger car sales declined by 15.8%, dropping to 8,154 units from 9,683 the previous year.

Commercial vehicles accounted for 79% of total sales in February, while passenger cars made up the remaining 21%. Despite the drop in passenger car sales, both segments recorded month-on-month growth, with commercial vehicles rising 5.5% and passenger cars increasing 3.8%.

For the first two months of 2025, total vehicle sales reached 76,768 units, marking a 6.4% increase from 72,132 units in the same period last year.

However, the year-to-date performance was affected by a 12.4% decline in passenger car sales, which fell to 15,883 units from 18,129.

On the other hand, commercial vehicle sales surged 12.6% to 60,885 units from 54,048, maintaining their dominant share of the market.

Industry leaders noted that automotive sales trends this year are being shaped by factors such as supply chain stability, rising demand for electric and autonomous vehicles, and global economic conditions.

Consumer preferences are also shifting towards connected, personalized driving experiences and environmentally friendly options.

Electric vehicle (EV) sales for January and February totaled 3,416 units, with hybrid EVs making up the largest portion at 3,034 units. Battery EVs accounted for 335 units, while plug-in hybrid EVs contributed 47 units.