Sales in the Philippine automotive industry bounced back in May after two months of decline, according to a joint report released Wednesday by the Chamber of Automotive Manufacturers of the Philippines, Inc. (CAMPI) and the Truck Manufacturers Association (TMA).

The industry sold 39,775 units in May 2025 — an 18.4 percent increase from 33,580 units in April.

Commercial vehicles dominated the market, accounting for 31,880 units. Within that segment, light commercial vehicles led with 23,671 units sold, while passenger cars contributed 7,895 units to the monthly total.

Year-to-date, total vehicle sales reached 190,429 units, a modest 1.7 percent increase compared to 187,191 units sold during the same period last year.

“We are encouraged by the industry’s sustained growth, especially with commercial vehicles driving overall performance. This reaffirms the significant role of the automotive sector in supporting the country’s economic activities,” said CAMPI President Atty. Rommel R. Gutierrez.

“With strong momentum heading into the second half of the year, CAMPI remains confident in the automotive industry’s positive performance. Continued collaboration between government and industry stakeholders will be key to sustaining this growth,” he added.

Reacting to the report, Rizal Commercial Banking Corporation chief economist Michael Ricafort attributed the rebound to the greater number of working and selling days in May compared to April.

“So the month-on-month pickup in vehicle sales is somewhat expected. Though the year-to-date sales remain softer,” Ricafort said, citing the impact of several non-working holidays in April that may have temporarily dampened demand.

Toyota Motor Philippines remains the market leader, commanding a 48.13 percent share, followed by Mitsubishi Motors Philippines Corporation (19.23%), Nissan Philippines Inc. (5.19%), Suzuki Philippines Inc. (4.68%), and Ford Group Philippines (4.49%).