Manila: An automotive industry executive on Thursday highlighted a positive trend in vehicle sales despite ongoing concerns about fuel supply, pointing to a notable increase in sales during May 2026 compared to April.

According to Philippines News Agency, data from the Chamber of Automotive Manufacturers of the Philippines, Inc. (CAMPI) and the Truck Manufacturers Association (TMA) revealed that total vehicle sales in May reached approximately 33,532 units, marking a 23.8 percent increase from 27,089 units in April. However, this figure is slightly lower than the 39,775 units sold in May 2025.

Year-to-date sales from January to May totaled 167,324 units, which is a decline from 190,429 units during the same period last year. In the breakdown of May sales, passenger cars made up 6,692 units, while commercial vehicles accounted for 26,840 units.

Electric vehicle (EV) sales have shown significant growth, with 24,356 units sold in the first five months of the year, an increase from 10,431 units in the same timeframe in 2025. Specifically, May saw EV sales reach 6,297 units, just above the 6,027 units sold in April.

CAMPI President Jose Maria Atienza, in a statement, credited the rise in EV sales to consumer interest in energy efficiency. "Our overall market outlook has improved with actual vehicle sales performing better than previously expected despite the fuel crisis," Atienza stated.

Initially, Atienza had anticipated an 8 to 10 percent decline in car sales for the year due to geopolitical tensions in the Middle East impacting fuel prices. He has since adjusted this forecast to a 5 to 8 percent decrease, following recent improvements in the regional situation.