More than 1.8 million motorcycles were added to Philippine roads last year, the highest annual level on record, as the two-wheeled vehicle stood out as the most practical option for Filipinos navigating highly congested urban areas.

Based on data from the Federation of Asian Motorcycle Industries (FAMI), Philippine motorcycle sales reached 1.87 million in 2025, up 11 percent from 1.68 million in the previous year.

FAMI sources its data from the Motorcycle Development Program Participants Association Inc. (MDPPA), which earlier set a sales target of 1.79 million units for the year. Last year’s figures also exceeded the previous record of 1.72 million sales, set in 2019.

MDPPA, which represents the country’s top motorcycle manufacturers, has been anticipating a surge in motorcycle sales due to demand for a more convenient mode of travel, given the country’s insufficient mass transport system.

Unlike four-wheeled vehicles that require more road space, riders can better maneuver through traffic congestion using motorcycles.

The industry group earlier said that at a time when household budgets are tight due to economic uncertainties, motorcycles serve as an affordable alternative to cars because of their fuel efficiency and low maintenance costs.

Rizal Commercial Banking Corp. Chief Economist Michael Ricafort said the increase in sales is further supported by better financing deals among competing lenders seeking to offer Filipinos the best terms for motorcycle ownership.

He said that competition among motorcycle brands provides more competitive pricing and greater variety, helping support higher consumer uptake.

MDPPA’s share of the domestic market is estimated at around 80 to 90 percent, comprising the local subsidiaries of Japanese motorcycle brands Honda, Kawasaki, Suzuki, and Yamaha, alongside Indian brand TVS Motor Company.

Combined, the five companies produced 983,623 units in the eight months to August last year. This indicates that the gap between local production and total sales was likely filled by imports from competing Chinese and Taiwanese brands.

Among FAMI’s member associations, the Philippines ranked third in terms of sales, behind Vietnam, which recorded sales of 2.62 million last year.

Indonesia, the most populous country in Southeast Asia, remained the leading motorcycle market, with sales reaching 6.41 million.

For this year, Ricafort said the anticipated improvement in the country’s economic conditions could encourage higher motorcycle demand.

“Slower economic growth in 2025 still led to record-high in motorcycle sales, [which is] a good signal for the industry as economic and business conditions improve,” he said in a Viber message.