The Motorcycle Development Program Participants Association (MDPPA) has been elected to lead the ASEAN Automotive Federation's Technical Committee for Motorcycle (AAF-TC5) until March 2029. The role will involve discussions on common standards, regulations and environmental measures for the ASEAN two-wheeler industry.

The appointment took effect during a Federation of Asian Motorcycle Industries (FAMI) gathering in Boracay, Philippines, in March 2026. During its three-year term, the MDPPA will oversee discussions on regional standardisation, regulatory harmonisation and environmental measures concerning the ASEAN two-wheeler industry.

Alexander Cumpas of Kawasaki Motors Philippines will represent the MDPPA as chairman of the committee, while MDPPA Secretary General Gilmar de Castro will serve as secretariat. The association is also represented in the ASEAN Automotive Federation by Andrew Angeles of Honda Philippines Inc. and Joselito Ang of Suzuki Philippines Inc.

AAF-TC5 represents the two-wheeler industry across ASEAN member countries and participates in discussions with the ASEAN Automotive Product Working Group and the Private Public Forum. The committee also provides a platform for the MDPPA to present industry concerns to government bodies and policymakers across ASEAN.

Cumpas said two-wheeler markets across the region face similar opportunities and concerns, particularly regarding standardisation and regulatory alignment. He added that cooperation would allow member associations to share experience and contribute to discussions on the development of the two-wheeler sector.

Other AAF-TC5 members include the Asosiasi Industri Sepeda Motor Indonesia, the Motorcycle and Scooter Assemblers and Distributors Association of Malaysia, the Thai Automotive Industry Association (TAIA) and the Vietnam Association of Motorcycle Manufacturers (VAMM). The Japan Automobile Manufacturers Association provides guidance to the committee.

The MDPPA represents Honda, Kawasaki, Suzuki, Yamaha and TVS in the Philippines. Its activities cover road safety, compliance, environmental protection and two-wheeler technology.

Philippine two-wheeler market records growth

The MDPPA's regional role comes as the Philippine two-wheeler market records demand. The market recorded a 4.8 percent increase in the second quarter of 2025 compared with the same period in 2024.

The increase reflects continued use of two-wheelers as a mode of transport. Two-wheelers generally have lower purchase and running costs than cars, while their smaller dimensions allow them to manoeuvre through traffic more easily. These factors are relevant for commuters as fuel and public transport costs contribute to daily expenses.

The expansion of delivery and mobility services has also contributed to demand, with small two-wheelers commonly used for short-distance journeys and last-mile deliveries.

The latest MDPPA figures indicate relatively stable demand across the main two-wheeler categories, including automatic and scooter models, mopeds, street motorcycles, business motorcycles, big bikes and several niche segments. Automatic and scooter models account for the largest share of the market, reflecting demand for two-wheelers used for daily commuting.

The MDPPA said the nearly five percent increase reflects continued market demand. Dealer activity has also increased, with some buyers who had postponed purchases in previous years returning to the market, while first-time owners are considering entry-level two-wheelers supported by financing options. Banks and dealers continue to offer monthly payment plans for two-wheeler purchases.

Demand is also linked to transportation requirements. Public transport can be crowded and unpredictable, particularly in areas outside major rail networks. Two-wheelers can reduce commuting and waiting times while allowing users to travel to employment opportunities beyond their immediate neighbourhoods.

In provincial areas, two-wheelers can serve as both family transport and work vehicles. Automatic and scooter models are commonly used for daily commuting, with features such as under-seat storage, relatively low seat heights and fuel-efficient engines supporting journeys to schools and offices.

Mopeds and business motorcycles continue to be used for delivery operations and rural travel, where durability and low maintenance costs are considerations. Big bikes account for a smaller segment and are largely used by enthusiasts and recreational riders.

Road safety and environmental initiatives

MDPPA member companies also conduct programmes covering road safety, emissions compliance and rider training. Its Tropang MAALAM initiative focuses on education and awareness, including the use of appropriate riding gear, lane discipline and basic two-wheeler maintenance.

Tropang MAALAM is an advocacy and digital information campaign launched by the Motorcycle Development Program Participants Association, (MDPPA), a consortium comprising the major motorcycle manufacturers in the Philippines - Honda, Kawasaki, Suzuki, TVS, and Yamaha.

The association expects the Philippine two-wheeler market to finish 2025 slightly above the previous year's level. Its working forecast is for approximately five percent growth for the full year, provided economic conditions remain stable and financing remains available. The projection is broadly in line with the growth recorded during the second quarter.

The market's development is taking place alongside increased regional cooperation. Through its leadership of the AAF-TC5 until March 2029, the MDPPA will participate in discussions concerning motorcycle standards, regulations and environmental measures, while representing the interests and concerns of the Philippine and wider ASEAN two-wheeler industry.