History of Yamaha in PH

Yamaha Motor Philippines can be described as a household name in the local market. Its lineup of models is a common sight on Philippine streets, and the brand’s outlets and shops are enduring landmarks nationwide. 

But interestingly, the brand’s local arm has only been around since 1962 - a fair bit earlier compared to the company’s founding by Torakusu Yamaha almost 130 years ago. 

So, how did Yamaha enter the Philippines? 

Yamaha Motor: Initial roots in PH

According to Yamaha Motor Philippines itself, the marque initially entered the market through a distributor. Specifically, the brand established a distribution agreement with the Norkis Trading Corporation. 

The said agreement went beyond distribution rights, however. In fact, Norkis also handled local manufacturing for the Japanese motorcycle brand. 

Fast forward to the present, Norkis remains a Yamaha distributor with branches in Metro Manila, Cebu, and various areas in Southern Luzon and Mindanao. Yamaha’s local presence, however, underwent a vast transformation in 2007. 

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Yamaha Motor Philippines: new subsidiary to address growth

In 2007, Yamaha’s global arm decided to establish Yamaha Motor Philippines (YMPH) - a subsidiary that is wholly owned by the Japanese conglomerate. Per the brand, the aforementioned was done in response to the rapid growth of the local motorcycle industry. 

It was also back in 2007 when YMPH opened its first-ever factory in the Philippines. The said facility is located in Laguna. 

Yamaha’s old distributor and local manufacturing partner, Norkis, meanwhile, ceased its manufacturing activities for the Japanese marque in June 2007. Prior to the aforementioned, Norkis produced the following models, most of which are now discontinued: 

• STX
• Crypton R
• Crypton Z

Yamaha Motor Philippines: recent activities

Currently, YMPH boasts a vast lineup of motorcycle models, ranging from scooters and adventure bikes to retro-styled big bikes and supersport nameplates. 

Some of the latest models introduced by YMPH for the local market include the following: 

• Next-generation Aerox
• Updated Mio Gravis
• Updated Xmax
• Next-generation Nmax
• Updated Mio Fazzio

Ready to buy a brand-new Yamaha Aerox? Check out these exclusive offers from Zigwheels Philippines.

At the moment, the company is also gearing up to introduce the all-new R9, which was previewed at the 2025 Yamaha Motor Show. The said model has already gained approval from the Land Transportation Office, though an exact launch date has yet to be declared by the company. 

Other noteworthy milestones of YMPH in 2025 include the launch of its new mobile app, the brand’s participation at the 2025 FIM Asia Road Racing Championship (ARRC) in Japan, as well as the revival of the “National Technician GP.” 

Also read:

All-new Yamaha Aerox: first look

Here are the all-new Yamaha Aerox's available colors

Yamaha Aerox Standard vs SP: which model should you pick?

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