Suzuki Philippines is investing PHP1.3 billion in a new warehousing facility for vehicles and spare parts, as well as a training center, on a three-hectare property near its existing 13-hectare motorcycle manufacturing facility at Carmelray Industrial Park in Canlubang, Laguna.
Norminio C. Mojica, managing director of Suzuki Philippines Inc., said that of the total PHP1.3 billion investment, the bulk—PHP900 million—will be allocated to the construction of the facilities.
The expansion comes as the Philippine unit of the Japanese automaker continues to strengthen its product lineup in both the four-wheel and two-wheel segments that made the brand, the Philippines third largest.
“The warehouse and training facilities are meant to take care of the customers, for the after sales service, for both our two-wheel and four-wheel models,” he said.
During the 10th Philippine International Motor Show (PIMS), Suzuki introduced its fully electric vehicle, the E-Vitara, to complement its existing lineup of hybrid and internal combustion engine (ICE) models. In addition, Suzuki plans to launch its first electric motorcycle model this year, further expanding its lineup of locally produced motorcycles at its Canlubang facility.
Suzuki has risen to become the country’s third-largest automotive brand. “We are number 3 in 4-wheel and number 4 in 2-wheel. We are also number 1 in outboard motors,” he added.
Asked about Suzuki’s rise to the third spot in domestic vehicle sales, Mojica said the company’s time has come. He noted that consumers are increasingly seeking fuel-efficient vehicles amid rising fuel prices and inflation concerns.
Mojica attributed Suzuki’s strong performance to its product mix, which aligns well with current market demand. He said consumers are looking for fuel-efficient vehicles and that Suzuki’s hybrid offerings have successfully addressed that need.
He expressed confidence that Suzuki can sustain its market presence despite intense competition. For the first four months this year, Suzuki sold a total of 6,289 units for a market share of 4.73 percent.
Among Suzuki’s most popular hybrid models in the Philippines are the Ertiga Hybrid, XL7 Hybrid, Dzire Hybrid, and Fronx.
“Actually, when it comes to EV, it’s a bit competitive space, especially from the China brands. The competition is also intense when it comes to the price. So, right now, we are competing with hybrid and ICE models,” he said, noting that the S-Presso, Carry, Ertiga, and XL7 models continue to perform well in the market.
Its Canlubang motorcycle manufacturing plant currently produces 20,000 units per shift per month, with a total capacity of 60,000 units monthly across three shifts. However, Mojica said the company has yet to maximize the plant’s production capacity because the Philippine motorcycle market remains highly competitive.
