The Japanese automaker said its plans include a previously announced P7-billion investment and participation in the government's Electric Vehicle Incentive Strategy (EVIS), which seeks to encourage domestic production of electric and other next-generation vehicles.
Hybrid push
MMPC plans to use its participation in EVIS to introduce hybrid electric vehicle production in the Philippines, expanding a manufacturing portfolio that currently includes conventional vehicles.
The company did not specify which hybrid model it plans to manufacture locally or when production would begin.
MMPC chair Noriaki Hirakata said hybrids offer a practical next step for the Philippine market while supporting efforts to strengthen the country's automotive manufacturing base.
"By expanding our local manufacturing portfolio, we are broadening mobility choices for our customers while supporting the country's ambition to strengthen its automotive manufacturing capabilities," Hirakata said.
ASEAN strategy
The expansion forms part of Mitsubishi Motors' longer-term strategy of treating Southeast Asia as a key growth region, with the Philippines among its priority markets.
MMPC said the initiatives would allow it to introduce new technologies while strengthening its local manufacturing operations.
The company has operated in the Philippines for decades and currently manufactures vehicles at its plant in Santa Rosa, Laguna.
Local ecosystem
Apart from vehicle production, MMPC said it would continue investing in its workforce and working with local suppliers as it seeks to improve the competitiveness of its Philippine operations.
"Our ambition extends beyond manufacturing vehicles," Hirakata said. "We want to help position the Philippines for the future by contributing to a more competitive, innovative, and resilient automotive industry." —Ed: Corrie S. Narisma
