PH to start manufacturing HEV units with Mitsubishi

MANILA: The Philippines might produce hybrid vehicles soon — with the help of Mitsubishi Motors Philippines Corporation (MMPC).

The plan to start manufacturing a hybrid electric vehicle model in the country was revealed after the parent company announced its intention to join the Philippine government’s Electric Vehicle Incentive Strategy (EVIS) following a meeting between President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and Mitsubishi Motors Corporation Chief Executive Officer Takao Kato.

The local electrified vehicle production at the brand’s facility in Santa Rosa, Laguna is expected to begin in mid-2028.

In preparing the facility for the new HEV model’s target production, MMPC is also looking at additional investments — including enhancements to its facilities to support electrification.

According to Mitsubishi, the initiative will contribute to the expansion of the local supply chain as well as generate employment opportunities in the region.

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“The Philippines has long been one of our most important markets, where we have engaged in production and sales for many years. In cooperation with the Philippine government, we are honored to contribute to the advancement of vehicle electrification and industrial development through the EVIS program, as well as to support the further growth of the Philippine economy,” the MMC chief said.

Meanwhile, Finance Secretary Frederick Go said that the investment could lead to the Philippines exporting hybrid vehicles in the future.

This strategic move accelerates the localization of advanced hybrid vehicle production, supporting the country’s goals for cleaner transport and higher-value manufacturing.

This development could result to the Philippines becoming less dependent on oil imports. It is also aligned with the Electric Vehicle Industry Development Act (EVIDA).

The Board of Investments is currently finalizing the Electric Vehicle Incentives Strategy (EVIS) program for endorsement to the Fiscal Incentives Review Board (FIRB) and for approval of the President.

Established in 1963, Mitsubishi — through MMPC — has a P1.64-billion in capital in the country. Its 214,000-square-meter facility (which manufactures the Mirage, Mirage G4, and L300) already has the capacity to produce 50,000 units annually.

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