The resumption of heavy spending from the government to build infrastructure projects is expected to sustain the upward trajectory of truck sales this year, according to the Truck Manufacturers Association Inc. (TMA).

“Having achieved our industry truck sales targets in 2025, we are confident about the positive outlook for 2026,” TMA President Robert Carlos said in a statement.

Based on combined data from TMA and the Chamber of Automotive Manufacturers of the Philippines Inc. (CAMPI), a total of 370,722 commercial vehicles were sold last year, accounting for nearly 80 percent of the automotive industry’s total sales.

Of the amount, 6,783 trucks and buses under the light-duty category were sold in 2025, up 3.6 percent from 6,545 in the previous year.

The sales of heavy-duty trucks and buses rose by 20.5 percent to 888 units compared to the prior year’s 737 units.

Only the medium-duty category posted subpar performance last year, with sales declining by seven to 3,690 units from 3,970.

Taking into account the 2024 data, TMA said last year’s sales figures were largely stable as the industry adjusted to normalized demand and inventory conditions.

The industry group said demand for trucks continued to rely on the government’s ongoing infrastructure projects and consistent economic activity nationwide.

Last year, the country experienced weaker-than-expected economic growth, largely due to the multibillion-peso corruption scandal in flood-control projects, which reduced government spending.

However, as the government increases spending again amid efforts to curb corruption through tighter transparency measures, the TMA said it is relying on infrastructure projects to lift sales this year.

“With sustained infrastructure development and vibrant economic activity, our member companies are well-prepared to meet the growing demand for reliable, efficient, and innovative commercial vehicles that support the country’s development goals,” said Carlos.

In addition, Carlos stated that the truck industry will see increased demand this year due to additional investments in logistics operations and fleet modernization.

As part of TMA’s commitment to nation-building, he said the industry group is focused on innovating new products that integrate advanced safety features and greener technologies.

This is intended to support the government’s objectives while delivering reliable transport and business solutions for local enterprises nationwide.

Carlos also stated that the group will continue to support local body application manufacturing and local parts suppliers to further strengthen the automotive value chain.

TMA is composed of Columbian Motors Corp., Ford Group Philippines, Global Autodistribution Inc., Hino Motors Philippines Corp., IC Automotive Inc., Isuzu Philippines Corp., MAN Automotive Concessionaires Corp., Mitsubishi Motors Philippines Corp., Sojitz Fuso Philippines Corp., and Toyota Motor Philippines Corp.