MDPPA unveils new advocacy campaign: “Tropang MAALAM”

MDPPA unveils new advocacy campaign: “Tropang MAALAM” Road safety through education – a lasting commitment between 2-wheel brands 26 September 2024, Tanay, Rizal – The Motorcycle Development Program Participants Association, Inc. (MDPPA), an association of the biggest motorcycle manufacturers in the country, recently mounted a one- of-a-kind event for members of the media, where they shared significant announcements about the organization as well as insights related to the Philippine motorcycle industry. The first half of the event started with a group ride, from Pasig City to Wyndell’s Cafe in Tanay, Rizal – a ride that exhibits a safe road, practiced with road courtesy and discipline. A media conference followed with MDPPA board members and key officers. Among the highlights of the media conference was the launch of the “Tropang MAALAM” Campaign, an initiative in line with MDPPA’s road safety advocacy that aims to promote motorcycle rider rights and safety through education, awareness, and engagement with stakeholders in the country’s motorcycle industry. “Tropang MAALAM” is short for “Tropang Modelo, Alerto, Aktibo, Ligtas, Aalalay, at Matalino (role model, alert, active, safe, willing to help, and smart). Through the campaign, MDPPA’s ultimate goal is to make roads safer while safeguarding lives by empowering every rider to be more MAALAM. Aside from the launch of the campaign, the five MDPPA member companies also shared their combined sales FORECASTS, showcasing their positive outlook in the Philippine Motorcycle Industry that promises continuous growth underscoring the market’s growth potential. Based on industry data, MDPPA is projecting a healthy growth rate of over 4% for the entire year, with total sales expected to exceed 500,000 motorcycle units from September to December, thus the projection of 1.6 million ++ total units of motorcycles sold amongst its members. The number if fulfilled will be the highest in five (5) years since the 2020 Pandemic. This surge in demand is driven by the growing popularity of motorcycles as a convenient and affordable mode of transportation. As of August 2024, the MDPPA has recorded a year-to-date growth of 3.8% compared to the same period last year. This growth is primarily attributed to the strong performance of the automatic motorcycle segment, which currently holds a market share of 64%. Business motorcycles account for 17% of the market, followed by mopeds at 16.3% and big bikes, street bikes, and other categories at 2.7%. “We are very optimistic about the future of the Philippine motorcycle industry,” said Alex Cumpas, President of MDPPA. “The continued growth in sales demonstrates the increasing preference for motorcycles as a reliable and efficient transportation solution. MDPPA remains committed to supporting the development of the industry and promoting safe and responsible motorcycle riding.” MDPPA is confident that the positive momentum will continue throughout the year, driven by various factors like ongoing government initiatives to improve road infrastructure and safety. About MDPPA The Motorcycle Development Program Participants Association, Inc. (MDPPA) is the country’s most relevant association proactive to the needs of stakeholders in the country’s motorcycle industry. Among the many goals of MDPPA is addressing the global industry gaps in road safety, regulation compliance, environmental protection, technology, and innovation through active consultation, representation, and communication with various stakeholders. Visit https://mdppa.com.ph/ to learn more about the various advocacies of MDPPA.

WEATHER THE STORM : Essential Motorcycle Safety Tips

WEATHER THE STORM : Essential Motorcycle Safety Tips There is always a first-time, and everyone starts from it in various ways. Moreover, unexpected challenges can make it more tough. New situations can be daunting, but remember, the best way to overcome it is thru proper education and to learn & adapt.  Similar to motorcycle riding, we all started from zero, and each experiences are giving us new learnings.  The Motorcycle Development Program Participants Association, Inc. (MDPPA), an organization of 5 Motorcycle Manufacturers, Honda, Kawasaki, Suzuki, TVS, and Yamaha, is giving you few tips to help you stay safe on the road as you ride your motorcycle this rainy season! Always have your rainy-day essentials ready With the wet season still underway, it pays to always have your rainy-day essentials ready with you whenever you go out for a ride. Among the items that you’re going to need is rain gear; opt for a 2-piece jacket and pants set instead of a poncho as the latter is prone to getting caught up in the moving parts of your motorcycle. Visor treatment, apply an anti-fog treatment, if possible, to your helmet visor to maintain visibility. Another item that you’ll need is a reflective band, which can be useful at night or during low-visibility conditions because of the rainy weather. Be more careful when riding in the rain Whenever it rains, roads can become more slippery due to residuals like oil and grease rising on top of rainwater, in turn reducing the grip of your wheels on the road. In addition, the rain can result in lower visibility for you and other road users, increasing the risk of road mishaps. These are some of the reasons why you need to be more careful when riding in the rain. Adjust your riding style, reduce speed to increase reaction time and reduce the risk of hydroplaning. Smooth controls, be gentle with your throttle, brakes, and handlebar to avoid skidding. Increase following distance, leave more space between you and the vehicle in front to give yourself extra time to properly stop. Another best practice is to avoid sudden maneuvers, as this might result in you losing control of your motorcycle. You also need to be more aware of your surroundings, especially at intersections.   Consider your route carefully Before going out on a ride in the rain, make sure that you already have your route planned out. Find out which roads are prone to flooding and heavy traffic whenever it’s raining, so you can find alternative routes. Also, if you can help it, avoid riding through flood especially if the water seems too deep, as this can damage your motorcycle. Take shelter ASAP especially during heavy rain During heavy rain, visibility can be so low that navigating the road becomes dangerous, not to mention the possibility of flash floods which might get you stranded and even damage your motorcycle. In this scenario, it would be wiser for you to seek out shelter as soon as possible and just wait it out, but make sure that you’re doing it properly, by seeking out emergency lay-bys that are intended for motorcycle riders.  This rainy season, navigating the road can become more challenging especially when out and about in our two-wheeled companions, so make sure to remember these tips so you can stay safe while riding your motorcycle!   About MDPPA The Motorcycle Development Program Participants Association, Inc. (MDPPA) is the country’s most relevant association proactive to the needs of stakeholders in the country’s motorcycle industry. Among the many goals of MDPPA is addressing the global industry gaps in road safety, regulation compliance, environmental protection, technology, and innovation through active consultation, representation, and communication with various stakeholders. Visit https://mdppa.com.ph/ to learn more about the various advocacies of MDPPA.

RIDING PILLION: Tips for a Safe and Enjoyable Ride

RIDING PILLION: Tips for a Safe and Enjoyable Ride If you’re a motorcycle rider, you’ve probably heard the term “OBR” or “pillion rider.” But riding as a passenger on a motorcycle requires specific skills and knowledge.  Here are a few tips to remember: First, ensure both you and your pillion are wearing proper riding gear, including helmets, gloves, jackets, and boots.  Second, since you’re now riding with a passenger, Adjust the Motorcycle condition, if possible, Check tire pressure, suspension, and mirrors. The extra weight might require adjustments, especially the suspension.  You’ll also need to ride more carefully for your passenger’s safety, which would entail accelerating and braking gradually and avoiding sudden maneuvers. Brake earlier and more gradually than when riding solo, as the extra weight can affect stopping distance. Lastly, don’t forget to keep an eye on your passenger and ask how they’re doing, especially if it’s their first time riding as a back ride. As the OBR, it’s crucial to sit close to your rider and hold onto their waist or stomach for a more stable ride. Open communication is also key: a simple tap can signal a concern. Also, to ensure a smooth ride, move in sync with the rider, especially during turns. If they lean left, you should lean left too. Avoid sudden movements to prevent disrupting their balance. Follow these safety tips for a safe and smooth ride for you and your riding partner! 

Five Philippine Laws to remember for motorcycle riders

FIVE PHILIPPINE LAWS TO REMEMBER FOR MOTORCYCLE RIDERS Knowing the rules of the road is a pre-requisite for any motorcycle rider, regardless of experience level.  Being updated with Philippine traffic laws and updates about Land Transportation and Traffic and the Republic Act No. 4136 that covers rules and regulations on driver’s license, vehicle operation, and traffic rules, is vital.  It is essential for motorcycle riders to stay updated on these laws and regulations to ensure compliance and avoid penalties. Be informed with these updates: RA 10054 Republic Act No. 10054, also known as the Motorcycle Helmet Act of 2009, aims to protect motorcycle riders from serious and fatal injury be requiring them to wear protective helmets. Violators will be punished with a fine ranging from P1,500.00 for the first offense up to a maximum of P10,000.00 and confiscation of their driver’s license from the fourth and succeeding offenses. RA 10586 Republic Act No. 10586, also known as the Anti-Drunk and Drugged Driving Act of 2013, is another law that protects motorcycle riders and others from serious and fatal injuries by prohibiting driving while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Apprehended individuals who fail the field sobriety, breathalyzer, and drug tests will be punished with a fine ranging from P50,000.00 up to P100,000 and six months of imprisonment, with steeper penalties if the violation resulted in physical injury or loss of life. RA 10666 Republic Act No. 10666, also known as the Children’s Safety on Motorcycles Act of 2015, aims to protect children by prohibiting anyone from driving two-wheeled motorcycles with a child on board when on public roads. Violators will be punished with a fine ranging from P3,000 for the first offense up to a maximum of P10,000.00 and suspension of their driver’s license from the fourth and succeeding offenses. Furthermore, if the violation results in physical injury or loss of life for the child or others, the violator will also be punished with a penalty of one year imprisonment. RA 10913 Republic Act No. 10913, also known as the Anti-Distracted Driving Act, enacted in 2016, aims to promote road safety by prohibiting the use of mobile phones and other electronic devices while driving. Violators will be punished with a fine ranging from P5,000.00 for the first offense up to a maximum of P20,000.00 and the revocation of the driver’s license from the fourth and succeeding offenses. RA 11235 Republic Act No. 11235, also known as the Motorcycle Crime Prevention Act, aims to prevent motorcycles from being used in criminal activities by requiring owners to use bigger, readable, and color-coded number plates. Violators will be punished with either a fine of not less than P50,000.00 but not more than P100,000.00, imprisonment ranging from six months and one day up to six years), or both. Knowing these laws and strictly following them can help make your rides with your motorcycle safer, smoother, and more enjoyable! About MDPPA The Motorcycle Development Program Participants Association, Inc. (MDPPA) is the country’s most relevant association proactive to the needs of stakeholders in the country’s motorcycle industry. Among the many goals of MDPPA is addressing the global industry gaps in road safety, regulation compliance, environmental protection, technology, and innovation through active consultation, representation, and communication with various stakeholders. Visit https://mdppa.com.ph/ to learn more about the various advocacies of MDPPA.

Want to learn or improve your bike-riding skills? Get up to speed with these training providers

Want to learn or improve your bike-riding skills? Get up to speed with these training providers. Are you a beginner rider looking to improve your motorcycle riding skills? Maybe you are considering going through a refresher course so you can strengthen your knowledge. Mastering the art of motorcycle riding takes practice and experience, but learning how to ride responsibly and use the road courteously starts with a right training. Fortunately, there are numerous organizations offering free and paid lessons to help you get up to speed. If you want to sharpen your motorcycle riding know-how, here are some training providers to help you get there: Honda Safety Driving CenterThe Honda Safety Driving Center (HSDC) stands as a beacon of excellence in the realm of riding and driving safety education. Strategically located in Parañaque City, this world-class training facility is dedicated to promoting safe riding practices and reducing road crashes through comprehensive rider training programs. Whether you’re a complete beginner, acquiring a driver’s license or looking to brush up on your existing skills, theHonda Safety Driving Center has you covered. Her’s a quick breakdown of their offerings: Their “Beginners Course” is the perfect starting point for anyone new to motorcycles or automobile. The “Refresher Course” is ideal for experienced riders/drivers who want to enhance their safety andconfidence. Need something specific? HSDC also offer customized training and flexible schedules to address specificlearning needs or requirements of any individual or corporate accounts. The success of Honda Safety Driving Center can be attributed to its team of expert instructors. These professionals are not only highly skilled instructors but also adept educators who are passionate about promoting road safety as the core of its teaching method. Recognized and acknowledged by Honda Global, HSDC employ a mix of theoretical and practical training instructions to ensure that participants gain a deep understanding of safe riding and driving practices. The Honda Safety Driving Center exemplifies Honda's dedication to promoting road safety through innovative training and education technique. By providing comprehensive and ladderized training programs in a state-of-the-art facility, and its Corporate Social Responsibility initiatives HSDC is not only helping individuals become better riders or drivers but also contributing to a safer riding environment for everyone. As road safety continues to be a global social concern, the efforts of institutions like HSDC are crucial in making our roads safer and reducing the number of traffic-related incidents align to its Global safety direction by 2050. To learn more about the Honda Safety Driving Center, visit www.hondaph.com/training-courses. Kawasaki Ninja Philippines Safety Riding Training If you’re a new motorcycle owner who is interested in learning about the basics of motorcycle riding or just want to brush up on your knowledge of riding your motorcycle, Kawasaki Philippines conducts regular trainings inpartnership with Ninja Philippines aimed at helping riders learn the best practices for safety riding. To know the schedule of the next training sessions, all you need to do is reach out to your nearest Ninja Philippines chapter. Their safety training covers several topics including how to handle your motorcycle in traffic and when cornering, just to name a few. The training sessions are free, and you will receive a certificate upon completion. To learn more about Kawasaki Ninja Philippines Safety Riding Training, visit Kawasaki Motors Philippines and Ninja Philippines’ official Facebook pages. Suzuki Safety Riding Authority (SSRA) Another organization that you can consider if you’re interested in learning how to ride your motorcycle is Suzuki Safety Riding Authority (SSRA) under Suzuki Philippines Incorporated. SSRA regularly offers trainings for free on a wide range of topics from Learn to Ride up to practical safety riding techniques which include posture and balance while riding a motorcycle, better understanding of traffic signs, road courtesy, among others. In fact, Suzuki Philippines Incorporated is currently the Guinness World Record holder for the Largest Road Safety Lesson. Utilizing a program that combines training from Suzuki’s home office in Japan with learnings from their partnership with the Land Transportation Office, SSRA offers another solid option for those who are looking to improve their motorcycle riding skills. Suzuki Philippines Incorporated offers their program for FREE. Just visit their website at link; or send a direct message on their social media channel https://www.facebook.com/SuzukiMotorcyclesPhilippines for more information. Yamaha Riding Academy Yamaha Motor Philippines also offers safety riding trainings to motorcycle riders through the Yamaha Riding Academy. The Yamaha Riding Academy is a program that aims to help motorcycle riders enjoy safe and enjoyablerides by equipping them with basic knowledge and skills related to motorcycle use. The Yamaha Riding Academy regularly conducts trainings and even webinars for free, which can cover numerous topics related to motorcycle use and road safety. These include proper riding posture, starting and stopping, braking, sitting, standing, slalom riding, making small turns, and riding uphill and downhill. To learn more about Yamaha Riding Academy, visit Yamaha Motor Philippines, Inc.’s official Facebook page. Honda Philippines, Inc., Kawasaki Motors Philippines Corp., Suzuki Philippines, Inc., and Yamaha Motor Philippines, Inc. are all members of the Motorcycle Development Program Participants Association, Inc. (MDPPA), the country’s most relevant association proactive to the needs of stakeholders in the country’s motorcycle industry. Among the many goals of MDPPA is addressing the global industry gaps in road safety, regulation compliance, environmental protection, technology, and innovation through active consultation, representation, and communication with various stakeholders.  Visit https://mdppa.com.ph/ to learn more about the various advocacies of MDPPA.

The Motorcycle Development Program Participants Association (MDPPA) forecasts a 10% growth in 2023 after recording sales increase following the pandemic

The Motorcycle Development Program Participants Association (MDPPA) forecasts a 10% growth in 2023 after recording sales increase following the pandemic Despite the global cost-of-living crisis and tightening of financial conditions in most regions, the local motorcycle industry was able to chart an upward trend as the Motorcycle Development Program Participants Association Inc. (MDPPA) ended the previous year of 2021 with a 19% sales growth (from the record low of 1,206,374 units in 2020 due to pandemic) to this year’s growth of 9%. The four members of the Association, namely, Honda, Kawasaki, Suzuki, and Yamaha posted a total annual sale of 1.43 million and 1.54 million units in 2021 and 2022, respectively. Automatic Transmission (AT) motorcycles or popularly known as scooters, recorded more than 900,000 units sold. Scooters are popular among riders due to ease of operation and are usually preferred by riders in the delivery service industry. The new AT units sold this year, tallies the 58% of total sales in 2022. The Business Unit (BU) motorcycles posted a total of 334,671 units sold or 21% total sales. BU motorcycles are intended for commercial use and mostly converted into tricycle units to either ferry passengers or used as delivery services of small and medium scale establishments. Considered as the most budget-friendly motorcycle available in the local market, Mopeds (MP) units sold totaled to 253,873 or 16% of last year’s sales. MP or Commuter Underbone remains a popular option to those looking for an affordable option. The Street (ST) motorcycle models contributed 4% share at 57,941 units. STs are considered as a step-up from the entry-level commuter bikes and, to some extent, an entry point to the Big Bike (BB) segment. BBs are high-displacement motorcycles that cater to the leisure rider market. 12,662 BB units were sold last year along with more than 1000 units of recreational off-road vehicles. MMDPA’s is an active member of of the Federation of Asian Motorcycle Industries or FAMI whose membership includes AISI (Indonesia), MASAAM (Malaysia), TAIA (Thailand) and VAMM (Vietnam). MDPPA sales growth over the last two (2) years which is an average of 15% is almost at par with its neighboring countries. AISI’s with the sales record of 3.6 million in 2020, 5 million units in 2021 and 5.2 million this year. The growth over the last 2 years was 30% on 2021 and growth of 4% increase this year, with an average growth of 17%. MASAAM sold 500,000 units in 2020, and 340,000 units in 2021 finally rebounded again in 2022 by selling 680,740 units. Thereby recording a decrease of 14% in 2021 but an increase of almost 50% this year (an average of 18%). VAMM sold 2.7 million units in 2020, and 2.5 million units in 2021 and increasing again in 2022 by selling 3 million units. Thereby recording a decrease of 10% in 2021 but an increase of 16 % this year. TAIA on the other hand had been consistent of averaging a sales 1.5 million units over the last three (3) years. Mr. Norminio “Boying” Mojica, MDPPA President said in his recent interview that despite the recent economic challenges, the association’s member companies continue to synergize with different stakeholders to continuously advance the welfare not only of the riding community but the public in general. Over the last two (2) years, we at MDPPA had conducted Road Safety Seminars online and onsite to more than 1,300 students and had supported different motorcycle groups push the advocacy for a safer road. Further, we continue to dialogue with different government agencies to safeguard the welfare of the riders and promote public-private partnership, Mr. Mojica added. He also made mention of the successful search for the Best Delivery Riders of 2022 which main purpose is to honor the Delivery Riders who played a vital role during the pandemic. For the year 2023, MDPPA is eyeing a growth of 10% or a total collective sale of 1.72 million units. Together with its member brands – Honda, Kawasaki, Suzuki and Yamaha – the MDPPA stands firm in its commitment to provide safe and affordable mode of transportation to Filipino riders.

On its 50th year, MDPPA welcomes 2024 Board of Directors, vows a responsive and sustainable motorcycle industry

On its 50th year, MDPPA welcomes 2024 Board of Directors, vows a responsive and sustainable motorcycle industry The Motorcycle Development Program Participants Association, Inc. (MDPPA), a consortium of leading motorcycle brands, recently entered a new chapter in its efforts to empower motorcycle industry stakeholders as it welcomed its newest Board of Directors, who reiterated their commitment to promoting global competitiveness and sustainable development for the industry. The newly inducted Board of Directors are Kawasaki Motor Philippines Corp.’s Alexander Cumpas as President (extreme right), Honda Philippines Inc.’s Erwin Estrada as Vice President (2nd from right), Yamaha Motor Philippines’ Gilbert Bilagantol as Treasurer (2nd from left), and Suzuki Philippines Inc.’s and former MDPPA president Norminio “Boying” Mojica as Auditor (extreme left). Department of Trade and Industry Usec. Ceferino Rodolfo officiated the induction of the new officers. Usec. Ceferino Rodolfo, Undersecretary for Industry Development and Investment Promotions Group of the Department of Trade and Industry, also graced the event. Other VIPs who were present during the event include the CEO’s of member companies from Honda, Kawasaki, Suzuki, Yamaha and TVS; MDPPA Government Committee Chair Lizette Fajardo from Suzuki Philippines Inc.; MDPPA Marketing Committee Chair Toni Boy Acuesta from Yamaha Motor Philippines, Inc.; MDPPA Road Safety Committee Chair Michael Lopez from Kawasaki Motors Philippines Corp.; MDPPA Technical Committee Chair Andrew Angeles from Honda Philippines, Inc.; and MDPPA Research and Planning Committee Chair Crisanto Malaiba. In his presentation prior to the induction and oath-taking of the new officers, Mojica highlighted some of the biggest accomplishments of MDPPA under his leadership as the association’s president from 2021 to 2023.  Under Mojica, MDPPA was able to support industry stakeholders through a robust response and recovery program for the motorcycle industry to address the COVID-19 pandemic and its impact on the industry.  Within Mojica’s term, MDPPA was also able to collaborate with different government agencies, motorcycle industry stakeholders – locally and from the Association of Southeast Asian Nations, facilitating dialogue on how they can uplift the motorcycle industry in the region. Mojica thanked the association for trusting in him over the last three years and expressed confidence that the new officers will be able to build off of these accomplishments and take the MDPPA to greater heights. “I am very confident that with the leadership of our incoming President Mr. Cumpas, the association will be able to accomplish even more as we continue to proactively serve the needs of the motorcycle industry’s stakeholders,” said Mojica. Newly elected President Cumpas expressed a renewed commitment to the goals of the association and said the new officers will continue to work hard towards a brighter future for the motorcycle industry.  This will be done through open and continuous collaboration with stakeholders from the motorcycle and corollary industries, aiding industry regulators in the development and implementation of policies and guidelines that are relevant to the ever-changing needs of motorcycle users, and pushing for economic policies that will promote the growth of the industry, among others. “We shall ensure that the motorcycle industry is well-placed to benefit from even more investment in production, bolster the domestic supply chain, and ensure people with the right skills are available to support a growing industry,” said Cumpas. On its 50th anniversary, MDPPA remains steadfast in its commitment to proactively address      the needs of the industry as well as global industry gaps in road safety, regulation compliance, environmental protection, and technology innovation. As MDPPA enters this new chapter, the motorcycle industry can rest assured that the association will continue to do its part in steering the industry towards a brighter tomorrow.