Mitsubishi Motors Signals Stronger Support for PH Electrification Push at ASEAN Business Forum

May 2026

In Photo (left to right): MMPC President & CEO Ritsu Imaeda, News Anchor Cathy Yang, DTI Secretary Christina Roque and Toyota Motors Philippines Vehicle Sales Operations FVP Elijah Marcial.

Mitsubishi Motors Philippines Corporation (MMPC) reinforced its support for the Philippine government’s electrification agenda during the ASEAN Business Media Exchange 2026 in Mactan, Cebu, positioning local hybrid vehicle production as both an industrial investment and a long-term contribution to national development.


MMPC President and CEO Ritsu Imaeda pointed to the Philippines’ growing importance within Mitsubishi Motors’ global operations, a key driver behind the company’s decision to pursue local hybrid vehicle manufacturing in the country in the coming years.


“For Mitsubishi Motors, the Philippines is one of the most important markets in our global operations. We see strong long-term potential here, especially as the country moves toward electrified mobility,” said Imaeda.


He noted that the government’s direction on electrification, alongside its continued support for local manufacturing, helped strengthen the company’s confidence to invest further in the Philippines.


“What encouraged us further was the government’s EVIS (Electric Vehicle Incentive Strategy) program and the broader support for local manufacturing. It gave us confidence that the market and the environment are moving in the right direction,” he added.


MMPC earlier announced plans to participate in the government’s Electric Vehicle Incentive Strategy (EVIS) program, initially focusing on hybrid electric vehicle production as part of a practical and phased approach toward electrification.


Beyond supporting cleaner mobility, the planned investment is expected to contribute to local manufacturing activity, employment, supplier development, and skills upgrading within the Philippine automotive industry.


The discussion led by Department of Trade and Industry Secretary Christina Roque formed part of broader conversations at the forum on how ASEAN economies can accelerate sustainable growth while strengthening domestic industries and regional competitiveness.

In Photo: DTI Secretary Christina Roque and MMPC President & CEO Ritsu Imaeda during the ASEAN Business Media Exchange 2026.

In Photo: MMPC President & CEO Ritsu Imaeda during the ASEAN Business Media Exchange 2026, joining the discussion on the future of mobility and electrification in the Philippines.